Captain Nguyen Hong Hai, 57, was arrested on the afternoon of 12/7 after a tourist canoe capsized in Phu Quoc, leaving 15 Indian tourists dead. An Giang Provincial Police made the arrest one day after the tragic incident.

The An Giang Provincial Police Board of Directors quickly directed relevant departments to investigate the scene, gather evidence, and take statements from those involved to determine the cause. Initial findings indicate that captain Hai violated legal regulations, though authorities have not yet disclosed specific details. The police investigation agency continues to broaden the case, vowing to strictly address all violations in accordance with the law.

Investigators working with crew members involved in the canoe sinking in Phu Quoc. Photo: Duong Dong

Ocean Pearl Island Company operated the capsized canoe, which was carrying 32 Indian tourists along with four crew members and attendants. It overturned in waters near Hon May Rut Ngoai, Phu Quoc special zone (An Giang), while en route to An Thoi port. The incident caused all 36 individuals on board to fall into the sea.

Border guards, police, military forces, fishing boats, and local residents launched a swift rescue operation, bringing all victims ashore. By the afternoon of the same day, authorities confirmed 15 fatalities. Rescuers saved twenty-one people, who then received emergency medical care. The cause of the canoe overturning remains under investigation.

Ngoc Tai - Duong Dong