A deadly boat accident in southern Vietnam has claimed the lives of 15 visitors from India on a return trip from an island excursion.
HANOI, Vietnam (AP) — A tourist boat returning from an island trip in southern Vietnam capsized Saturday, killing 15 Indian tourists, state media reported.
The speedboat was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members when it capsized about 400 meters (1,310 feet) from nearby Hon May Rut Ngoai Island. Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest islandauthorities were quoted as saying.
Eyewitnesses told VN Express that nearby boats rushed to the scene and began pulling the passengers out of the water before the border guards, navy, coast guard and other rescue agencies arrived. The rescue was difficult because many were trapped inside, VN Express reported.
Twenty-one people were rescued and all the dead were recovered, authorities said. The injured have been sent to hospitals.
Footage on Vietnamese television showed rough seas and strong winds as rescue teams threw life-saving bombs to people in the water. Jet skis took the survivors back to shore, while people on the beach administered first aid to the victims.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung ordered an investigation into the cause of the accident and instructed authorities to hold those responsible accountable. He also asked the authorities to review the safety of waterways and seas in the area where the accident occurred and other similar areas.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the tourists were employees of a private mobile phone company attending an annual meeting. He wrote on social media that Indian Embassy personnel were at the scene.
Phu Quoc on the Gulf of Thailand is one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations. Hon May Rut Island is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of Phu Quoc. They are known for their white sandy beaches and clear waters and attract millions of local and foreign tourists every year.
The cause of the accident has not been disclosed and the investigation has started.
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