Vietnam boat tragedy: Kerala couple among 15 dead near Phu Quoc Island

HANOI: The fatal boat accident off the coast of Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam has claimed the lives of 15 people, including a couple from Kottarakkara in Kerala's Kollam district. The victims, identified as A.C. Thomas—owner of the Victory Group—and his wife, Lowny, were among the passengers on a tourist vessel that capsized shortly after departing for An Thoi port.

The boat, which was carrying 32 passengers and four crew members, had set out from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island when the incident occurred. According to preliminary reports, heavy winds and severe weather conditions caused the vessel to capsize minutes into the journey.

Of the 15 fatalities confirmed by authorities, two victims were identified as hailing from Kerala, ten from Tamil Nadu, and three from Andhra Pradesh. The couple from Kerala had reportedly travelled to Vietnam for a tour just three days prior to the accident.

Rescue operations were initiated immediately by the military, local police, and area fishermen. While a number of passengers were successfully recovered, those rescued were rushed to local hospitals for urgent medical care. Officials have indicated that the condition of some of the survivors remains critical, and search and rescue efforts are ongoing to account for the remaining individuals.

In response to the tragedy, the Indian Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City and the Indian Embassy in Hanoi have established emergency control rooms. Authorities have also released dedicated helpline numbers to assist the families of the victims and provide necessary support.