Vietnam boat tragedy: Kottarakkara couple dead among 15 Indian tourists

A couple from Kollam are among 15 Indian tourists who tragically lost their lives after a speedboat capsized off the popular Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc. The deceased have been identified as AC Thomas (57) and his wife Loveny Thomas (56), both residents of Kottarakkara. The couple left Kerala on July 7 for a vacation to Vietnam as part of a group tour. Family members said the couple had been in constant contact with them until the day of the tragedy.

The accident happened on Saturday afternoon. Caught in sudden rough seas and buffeted by strong winds, the vessel reportedly lost control and overturned just 400 meters from shore. According to local authorities, the sea was extremely rough and the overturned vessel trapped many passengers underneath. There were 36 people on board, including 32 Indian tourists and four crew members. Local rescue teams and nearby tourist boats managed to pull 21 survivors from the water.

Following the incident, Chief Minister VD Satheesan directed the CEO of NORKA Roots to coordinate further updates with the Vietnamese Embassy. The Chief Minister’s Office is also in direct communication with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while the Resident Commissioner at Kerala House in New Delhi has been tasked with monitoring the coordination of the Central Government. Meanwhile, MP Kodikunnil Suresh said he has requested the Indian ambassador to Vietnam to take swift action to bring the bodies of the deceased couple to Kerala as soon as possible, confirming that the consulate is providing all necessary bureaucratic support to the bereaved families.

Published – 11 Jul 2026 21:34 IST