Speedboat Capsizes Near Vietnamese Island, Killing 15 Indian Tourists

A speedboat carrying Indian tourists has capsized near an island in southern Vietnam, resulting in the deaths of fifteen people, according to local media reports.

The vessel was transporting 32 Indian nationals and four crew members when it overturned in rough sea conditions on Saturday. The accident occurred approximately 400 metres (1,312 feet) from Hon May Rut Ngoai island, a remote and picturesque destination in the An Thoi Archipelago.

Rescue Efforts and Casualty Confirmation

Several tourist boats operating in the surrounding waters responded quickly to the emergency. According to Vietnam's VnExpress news outlet, rescuers arriving at the scene found many passengers trapped inside the overturned speedboat, complicating recovery efforts.

Twenty-one people were eventually rescued from the water. However, authorities stressed that the exact number of deceased and survivors was still being confirmed, as operations continued in challenging conditions.

Nguyen Tien Hai, a senior Communist Party official overseeing the area, told VnExpress that the capsizing was likely caused by heavy winds and high waves. He stated that the top priority remained the rescue operation, bringing all victims ashore, and focusing all available resources on providing emergency medical care to those still alive.

A Pristine Island Destination

Hon May Rut Ngoai is described as a pristine island located within the An Thoi Archipelago, situated in the Gulf of Thailand. The island is a well-known stop on island-hopping boat tours and attracts tourists from around the world.

The island sits approximately 10 kilometres (six miles) south of Phu Quoc, which is Vietnam's largest island. Phu Quoc and its surrounding archipelago have become increasingly popular tourist destinations, drawing international visitors to their clear waters and scenic landscapes.

Indian Embassy Issues Response

The Indian embassy in Vietnam characterised the incident as "tragic" and took the step of publishing the complete list of the 32 Indian nationals who had been on board the capsized vessel.

In addition to releasing the names, the embassy established telephone hotlines dedicated to providing information and assistance to the families of those affected by the disaster. The move was aimed at ensuring that relatives could receive timely updates about their loved ones.

Authorities in Vietnam continue to investigate the full circumstances of the accident while rescue and recovery operations persist. The incident highlights the potential dangers of maritime travel in adverse weather conditions, even in well-trafficked tourist areas.

This is a developing story, and more details may emerge as officials complete their investigation and confirm the final numbers of those lost and saved. If you found this article helpful, please share it with your network to help others stay informed about this tragic event.

Source: BBC News – World