Ho Chi Minh City probes sinking of fishing boats after collision with foreign cargo ship

The incident occurred at around 2:50 pm on Saturday, some eight nautical miles southeast of Vung Tau Cape, involving Panama-flagged cargo ship SEA NOBLE and two local fishing boats, TG90738 TS and BV92437 TS.

The collision resulted in both fishing vessels sinking and 11 crew members being thrown into the sea.

Upon receiving the distress signal, border guards in the southern metropolis immediately approached the scene for rescue operations.

The 11 crew members were brought ashore, and then received initial medical checks that showed that one crew member was suffering facial and chest injuries and experiencing difficulty breathing.

The military medical team promptly provided treatment, along with essential supplies such as food, water, warm clothing, and other necessities to ensure the well-being of the rescued fishermen.

Captain Le Van Thiep of TG90738 TS recounted the events leading up to the collision.

Both fishing boats had departed from Phuoc Tinh Port when his vessel experienced a throttle cable failure about eight nautical miles from Vung Tau Cape.

He reduced speed and approached the other fishing boat to address the problem.

While the two boats were anchored side by side, they noticed an approaching cargo ship.

“We shouted in panic, but the cargo ship did not respond and slammed into our boats,” Thiep said.

One of the fishing vessels sank immediately, while the other gradually went under.

Crew members clung to floating debris to stay afloat.

Two other fishing boats assisted them while returning to shore, while some members called the border guard and relevant authorities for support.

Captain Thiep expressed his gratitude for the timely assistance from the nearby fishing boats and the border guard personnel who aided the injured crew.

The Ho Chi Minh City Border Guard Command has instructed relevant agencies, in coordination with the Ho Chi Minh City Maritime Administration, to require the SEA NOBLE to remain anchored for investigation and handling of the incident in accordance with regulations.