On the evening of 6/10, two male Dutch tourists rode their heavy motorcycles into the forest of Khe Me village, Con Tien commune, to explore nature. They followed directions from Google Maps onto a forest road, which locals had opened primarily for transporting acacia and melaleuca timber.

Two Dutch tourists were brought out of the forest. Photo: Con Tien Commune Police

After traveling over 5 km on muddy, winding roads made slippery by rain, one motorcycle fell into a stream and was damaged. One tourist sustained minor injuries. The area also lacked phone signal, preventing them from calling for help.

Local residents discovered the incident around 6 p.m. and reported it to Con Tien Commune Police. A search party of over 10 individuals, including commune police officers and locals, set out with flashlights. They waded through mud and trekked through the dense forest. The rescue efforts were challenging due to darkness, steep terrain, and slippery conditions.

After over three hours, the two tourists were located, both in stable health and spirits. The police force then mobilized a modified tractor to retrieve the damaged motorcycle from the stream and transport the tourists and their bike out of the forest.

"By 9:30 p.m., the two tourists were safely rescued, with one sustaining minor scratches", Lieutenant Colonel Vo Quang Tien, Deputy Head of Con Tien Commune Police, stated. He added that the tourists were staying at a hotel in Cam Lo.

Police mobilized a modified tractor to transport the motorcycle and people out of the forest. Photo: Con Tien Commune Police

The two tourists later wrote a letter recounting the incident and expressing their gratitude to the rescue team and local residents. The letter read: "On the evening of 6/10, while traveling through the countryside, we unfortunately got lost deep in the forest. At that time, everything felt scary and hopeless. The officers of Con Tien Commune Police and local residents appeared in the dark, carrying flashlights, a specialized tractor, and warm smiles".

Content of the letter written by the two tourists. Photo: Con Tien Commune Police

"This experience will forever be an unforgettable memory, reminding us that the beauty of Vietnam lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the warm hearts of its people", the two tourists wrote.

Dak Thanh