Vietnam Forms Working Groups to Assist Families of Boat Tragedy Victims
Hanoi, Vietnam — In response to the recent boat capsize tragedy in Phu Quoc that claimed the lives of 15 Indian nationals, the Vietnamese government has established two working groups. Their primary focus is to assist the families of the victims and ensure the swift repatriation of their remains. The government is collaborating closely with the People’s Committee of An Giang Province, Phu Quoc Special Zone, and various Indian diplomatic missions.
The tragic incident occurred when a speedboat capsized due to poor weather conditions. Following this, Vietnamese authorities have been active in coordinating relief efforts. A delegation from Tamil Nadu, the home state of many of the deceased, will also be welcomed by these working groups.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Vietnam has taken significant steps to manage the situation. The remains of the deceased will be transferred to the Ho Chi Minh City Forensic Medicine Centre for proper handling and storage. A continuous duty roster has been established to support legal assistance and reception of the victims’ families.
MOFA expressed its commitment to providing necessary consular support. In an official statement, they reiterated their coordination with local and Indian authorities, highlighting efforts to address the consequences of this tragic event.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, Le Hoai Trung, sent condolences to his Indian counterpart, reinforcing the commitment of the Vietnamese government to assist the families affected by this tragedy. The Vietnamese delegation, led by Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang, is working on the ground to provide procedural guidance for funeral arrangements and the repatriation process.
The Ho Chi Minh City Department of External Relations has been instrumental in facilitating the transfer of the remains and has committed officers to support the families 24/7. Additionally, they are coordinating entry procedures for representatives from the Tamil Nadu government who will assist in managing the aftermath of the incident.
India’s Ambassador to Vietnam has expressed gratitude toward Vietnamese authorities for their prompt and responsible actions. The Ambassador noted the cooperation and timely financial support offered to ease the burden on the affected families.
As efforts continue on both sides, the Vietnamese government remains dedicated to ensuring that the remains of the deceased are returned to India as soon as possible, in line with family wishes. Meanwhile, the Indian government is actively engaged in coordinating the logistics for the transfer of the deceased.
Earlier interventions by Indian officials have aimed to expedite these efforts. Plans for the repatriation of the remains have been laid out, and updates on flight schedules will be provided soon.
Additionally, a local sailor has been arrested for alleged violations connected to the boat capsizing. The investigation is ongoing to hold any responsible parties accountable under Vietnamese law.
The speedboat, which was carrying a total of 36 people, had a significant number of Indian tourists aboard. The tragedy has brought to light the importance of safety measures in tourist operations, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
