NEW DELHI: A tragic speedboat accident off Vietnam's popular tourist island of Phu Quoc has claimed the lives of 15 Indian tourists, prompting Vietnamese authorities to launch a criminal investigation and detain the boat's captain.

The speedboat, carrying 32 Indian tourists and four Vietnamese crew members, capsized shortly after departing from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island while heading towards An Thoi Port. Officials said rough sea conditions and high waves caused the vessel to overturn within minutes, trapping several passengers inside.

Rescue teams, assisted by nearby boats and local residents, managed to save 21 people. Most survivors have since been discharged from hospitals, while at least one person remains in critical condition. According to survivors, the boat overturned suddenly, leaving little time for passengers to react.

Vietnamese police have detained the 57-year-old captain on allegations of violating inland waterway transport safety regulations. Authorities are investigating whether negligence, inadequate safety measures, or adverse weather conditions contributed to the tragedy.

The victims were employees and business partners of Indian electronics company Lava International, who were on a company-sponsored trip. The Indian Embassy in Vietnam has established emergency support centres, coordinated assistance for survivors, and is facilitating the repatriation of the victims' bodies to India.

The incident has raised concerns about tourist safety and emergency preparedness in Vietnam's growing tourism sector. Travel experts have urged visitors to ensure that operators follow safety regulations and that life-saving equipment is readily available before undertaking water-based excursions.

As investigations continue, both Vietnamese and Indian authorities have pledged full cooperation to determine the cause of the accident and prevent similar tragedies in the future.