Survivors pulled from the water as rescue teams respond to fatal tourist boat capsizing.
A tourist boat returning from an island excursion in southern Vietnam capsized on Saturday, leaving 15 Indian tourists dead, according to state media reports.
The vessel was carrying 32 Indian visitors and four crew members when it overturned around 400 metres (1,310 feet) from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, located near Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, authorities said.
Eyewitnesses told VN Express that nearby boats quickly rushed to the scene and began rescuing passengers from the water before border guards, the navy, coast guard and other emergency teams arrived.
The rescue operation was challenging, as several people were reportedly trapped inside the overturned vessel, VN Express reported.
Authorities said 21 people were rescued from the vessel, while all those who died were recovered. The injured were transported to hospitals for medical treatment.
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations. Hon May Rut Island, situated around 10 kilometres (6 miles) south of Phu Quoc, is known for its white-sand beaches and clear waters. The area attracts millions of domestic and international visitors each year.
The cause of the accident was not immediately known, and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
