The accident occurred at around 6 pm on February 21 in Bao Ai Commune, according to Ta Quang Cong, chairman of the commune’s People’s Committee. Authorities are investigating the incident.
According to the initial information, a stone-laden ferry bearing registration YB-0919H, travelling from Xuan Long to Huong Ly Port and operated by a 41-year-old local man, collided with a passenger vessel, registration YB-0876H, piloted by a 31-year-old man from the same area.
There were 22 passengers on board the boat at the time, in addition to the captain. The passenger vessel later sank.
Rescue teams have recovered 17 people, all reported to be in stable condition, while six remain unaccounted for. The missing includes three adults and three children.
Search operations were continuing as of 9 pm.