The bodies of the 15 Indian tourists who lost their lives in a tragic speedboat accident near Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island are being transported to Ho Chi Minh City before being flown back to India, the Indian Embassy in Hanoi confirmed on Sunday. The victims were among 32 Indian tourists travelling on a speedboat along with four Vietnamese crew members when the vessel capsized near Hon May Rut Ngoai Island on July 11. Rescue teams managed to save the remaining passengers, while the Indian mission has been working closely with Vietnamese authorities to ensure the swift repatriation of the deceased.

According to the embassy, 16 of the 17 rescued Indian tourists have been discharged from hospital and are returning to India after receiving medical treatment. One survivor, who remains in critical condition, is still undergoing treatment at a hospital in Phu Quoc. Embassy officials and staff from the Indian Consulate continue to remain on the island to assist survivors and coordinate with local authorities during the ongoing relief and repatriation process. The embassy also thanked Vietnamese officials for extending full support in handling the aftermath of the tragedy.

Among the 15 deceased, 10 were from Tamil Nadu, three from Andhra Pradesh, and two from Kerala. Following the accident, the respective state governments issued helpline numbers to assist affected families. Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has ordered a detailed investigation into the cause of the boat accident and directed authorities to identify and hold those responsible accountable. The incident has cast a shadow over one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations and has once again highlighted the importance of strict safety measures for water transport and adventure tourism.