HANOI: At least 13 people were killed and four others missing after a tourist boat capsized on Saturday (Feb 26) in bad weather off the coast of Hoi An, a world heritage-listed Vietnamese city, an official said.
The accident occurred as the vessel carrying 39 local tourists and crew members was returning to Hoi An from Cu Lao Cham island - a popular spot for diving, snorkelling and water sports.
Local Communist Party chief Nguyen Sinh confirmed 13 people drowned and four were missing. He added that all the tourists were Vietnamese.
Rescue efforts were suspended in the evening because of fading light, he said.
"We cannot do anything further as it is too dark," he told AFP, adding a full investigation would be carried out and some survivors were receiving medical treatment.
"We will resume the search at first light tomorrow morning for the other four people."
A local border guard said among the missing were two children. "Chances of them being found alive are small," he said.
More at https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/vietnam-tourist-boat-sinks-13-dead-hoian-rescue-2521781
