Tourist boat capsizes off Vietnam, 15 Indian nationals killed PHOTO

A tourist boat carrying Indian nationals capsized off Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island on July 11, killing 15 people and leaving others injured, according to local authorities and state media.

The vessel was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members when it overturned about 400 metres from shore while en route from May Rut Ngoai Island to An Thoi port, VNExpress reported.

Authorities said the boat was struck by a strong wave and a gust of wind, causing it to capsize and throwing all 36 people on board into the water.

Nearby tourist boats were first to reach the scene, followed by border guards, naval forces, the coast guard and other emergency services. Rescue efforts were complicated by the fact that some passengers were trapped inside the overturned vessel.

By the evening, all those on board had been brought ashore. Twenty-one people were rescued, while survivors were taken to hospital, some in serious condition.

Officials said the victims included 15 Indian citizens — 13 men and two women. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident and are carrying out procedures to return the bodies to relatives.

Preliminary findings indicate the vessel had the necessary permits to transport passengers.

By Tamilla Hasanova