Vietnam Boat Crash: Mumbai to Receive Remains of 15 Victims

Hanoi, July 13 – Following a fatal boat accident near Phu Quoc Island, the remains of fifteen Indian nationals are being transported from Ho Chi Minh City to Mumbai on a dedicated Vietnam Airlines flight. The Indian embassy in Hanoi reports that the aircraft will touch down in Mumbai late Monday.

State authorities in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been directed to coordinate the receipt of the bodies and assist families in performing last rites. The embassy also conveyed appreciation for the support and condolences extended by Vietnamese officials.

In a separate update, an Indian survivor undergoing treatment on Phu Quoc successfully completed a medical procedure on Sunday evening. He was admitted to a hospital in Ho Chi Minh City on Monday, and his family members have already arrived in Vietnam.

Local police in An Giang province have arrested a 57‑year‑old individual identified as boat captain Guyen Hong Hai for alleged violations of regulations governing tourist vessels. An investigation and criminal proceedings are now underway.

Preliminary data suggests the boat was carrying about 32 Indian tourists, with 17 hailing from Tamil Nadu and the rest from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Kerala. Rescue teams, residents and emergency responders arrived promptly, launching a broad rescue operation.

The tragic episode highlights the swift cooperation between the two nations in handling the crisis and repatriating the deceased with dignity.