Dong Thap authorities confirmed on 28/4 that a preliminary investigation determined the tourist boat involved in an accident that killed two passengers on the Tien River had its registration expired on december 18 and its service life ended late last year.

The boat was also not registered for passenger transport, had not notified port management, and operated outside regulated hours at My Tho marina, Pontoon Bridge number 2.

The scene of the accident. Photo: Nam An

During questioning by authorities, Nguyen Van Loc, the vessel owner, and captain Nguyen Thanh Tan admitted to the violations.

According to the investigation, on the afternoon of april 18, Loc organized a birthday celebration and asked Tan to pilot the boat, carrying 12 relatives and friends from his private dock along the Tien River.

After more than 4 hours of celebration, the boat docked at Pontoon Bridge number 2 for passengers to disembark. While moving from the boat to the dock, Trinh Quang Son, 73, from TP HCM, and Vo Van Tung, 53, from Thoi Son ward, Dong Thap province, fell into the river and disappeared.

The two victims were found two days later.

Hoang Nam