Speedboat capsizes off Vietnam, killing 15 tourists; police detain captain
Key Points:
- Vietnamese police detained the captain of a speedboat that capsized near Phu Quoc island, resulting in the deaths of 15 Indian tourists; the captain is under investigation for alleged safety violations.
- The speedboat, carrying 32 Indian tourists and four Vietnamese crew members, overturned shortly after leaving Hon May Rut Ngoai island amid rough seas with high waves up to 10 feet.
- Sixteen survivors have been discharged and are returning to India, while one remains in critical condition; the victims were on a company trip organized by India's Lava International.
- Rescue efforts were hampered by rough seas, with nearby boats and Jet Skis aiding survivors; some passengers were trapped inside the boat and had to escape through windows or the bow.
- The incident occurred in a popular tourist area experiencing a tourism boom, particularly from India, with authorities noting that boating accidents are common in the region due to extreme weather and maintenance issues.