15 Indian tourists die as speedboat capsizes off southern Vietnam
The speedboat was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members when it overturned Saturday afternoon
ATT Desk Report 
Fifteen Indian tourists were killed after a speedboat carrying visitors from an island excursion capsized off Vietnam's southern coast on Saturday, less than half a kilometre from shore, authorities said.
The boat was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members when it overturned shortly after departing Hon May Rut Ngoai Island near Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island, reports ABC News.
"The boat had not even gone half a kilometre when it just tipped over," eyewitness Ashish Kumar told the Associated Press. "We screamed, 'Help! Help!'"
He said nearby boats rushed to rescue those in the water, but many passengers were trapped inside the overturned vessel.
According to authorities, 21 people were rescued while all 15 victims were recovered. The injured were taken to hospital.
Kumar said there was no emergency medical assistance available onshore when survivors were brought back. He added that at least some of the passengers were on a company tour organised by their employer, a smartphone and consumer electronics manufacturer.
India's Lava International confirmed that some of its employees and channel partners were among those involved in the accident and said its immediate priority was to support the victims and their families.
Vietnamese media reported that rough seas and strong winds hampered rescue efforts. Television footage showed rescue teams throwing life buoys to passengers in the water while jet skis ferried survivors back to shore, where first aid was administered.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung ordered an investigation into the accident and directed authorities to hold those responsible accountable. He also instructed officials to review waterway and maritime safety in the area.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the tragedy and said the Indian Embassy was providing all possible assistance to those affected.
Officials believe many of the victims were from the Indian states of Telangana and Tamil Nadu.
Authorities in Telangana have established a control room to assist affected families, while Tamil Nadu Chief Minister urged Indian authorities to ensure support for the victims and the swift repatriation of the bodies.
Phu Quoc, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is one of Vietnam's most popular beach destinations, attracting millions of domestic and international visitors each year. Nearby Hon May Rut Island is renowned for its white sandy beaches and clear waters.
India has become one of Vietnam's fastest-growing tourism markets, with the country welcoming about 750,000 Indian visitors in 2025, an increase of nearly 50 percent from the previous year, driven by expanded direct flight connections and Vietnam's liberal e-visa policy.
