Speedboat capsizes off the coast of Phu Quoc, Vietnam... 15 Indian tourists dead [Captured from VNExpress website]

A speedboat carrying tourists capsized in the waters near Phu Quoc Island, a popular tourist destination in southern Vietnam, leaving 15 Indian tourists dead.

According to local media, including the state-run Vietnam News Agency (VNA) and VNExpress, on the 11th (local time), the tourist speedboat overturned off the coast of Hon May Rut island, a small island located about 11 km south of Phu Quoc, at approximately 1:00 p.m. that day.

Authorities stated that the boat was carrying 36 people—32 Indian tourists, three crew members, and one Vietnamese tour guide—when it capsized due to strong winds and rough waves after traveling about 400 meters from Hon May Rut, where it had departed to head toward the port of Phu Quoc.

Nearby vessels immediately launched a rescue operation and saved 21 people, but 15 Indian tourists were found dead.

It was reported that some of the tourists were members of a group trip organized by an Indian electronics company.

Ashish Kumar, an Indian national who was on board, told the Associated Press, "The boat hadn't even gone 500 meters (after departure) when it suddenly flipped over. We were shouting 'Save us' and 'Help us'." He added that while nearby boats rushed to help, "it was already too late."

He further added that among his three friends who were on the boat with him, "I heard two have died and the other is in critical condition."

A boat owner who participated in the rescue told VNExpress that they faced difficulties because many tourists were trapped inside the capsized boat, noting that "only a few people who were conscious were rescued."

Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Khai has directed the Ministry of Public Security to investigate the cause of the accident and strictly punish those responsible in accordance with the law. He also urged relevant authorities to provide support to the bereaved families and the injured, and to conduct maritime safety inspections in the waters where the accident occurred.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his "deep sorrow" over the news of the accident on X (formerly Twitter). He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and stated that the Indian Embassy and Consulates are providing all necessary assistance.

Phu Quoc is one of Vietnam's most iconic resort destinations, frequented by many Korean travelers as well; in the first half of this year, it attracted 5.7 million tourists, a 30% increase compared to the previous year.

Hon May Rut island, where the accident occurred, is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling known for its white sandy beaches and clear waters, with many tourists using speedboats to travel between the island and the main island of Phu Quoc.