Vietnamese authorities have detained the operator of a speedboat that capsized off Phu Quoc Island, killing 15 Indian tourists. A criminal investigation is underway, according to media reports on Sunday.
Details of the Accident
The speedboat, carrying 32 Indian tourists and four local crew members, capsized near Hon May Rut Ngoai off Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam on Saturday. Fifteen Indian tourists lost their lives, while the remaining passengers were rescued.
The detained operator was identified as Captain Nguyen Hong Hai, 57, a resident of Thuan Tien hamlet, Son Kien commune in An Giang province. He was temporarily staying in the Phu Quoc special zone, reported Vietnamese news portal VN Express International.
Investigation and Legal Action
Following the accident, investigators and competent forces conducted a scene examination, gathered evidence and documents, and recorded statements from those involved to determine the cause. The investigation is ongoing to ensure any violations are strictly dealt with under Vietnamese law, VN Express added.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung ordered an investigation into the cause of the accident and directed authorities to hold those responsible accountable, local media reported.
Impact on Tourism
Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island, is a major tourist destination known for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and island-hopping excursions. The Indian tourists were reportedly returning from an island visit when the speedboat capsized about 400 metres off Hon May Rut Ngoai island.
In a related development, speedboat tours to the An Thoi Archipelago off Phu Quoc Island have been temporarily suspended after the accident, according to news portal Tuoi Tre News. Local operators and authorities said services will resume only when weather conditions improve to ensure visitor safety.
