On the afternoon of July 20, the People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province held an emergency press conference to provide official information about the capsizing of tourist boat QN-7105 in Ha Long Bay on the afternoon of July 19. The entire political system of Quang Ninh Province has been and continues to make every effort with the highest determination to conduct rescue operations, investigate the cause, and minimize damages.

At the press conference, the Deputy Chairman of the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee stated that there were a total of 49 victims on the boat, including 46 tourists and 3 crew members. As of now, the identities of 35 individuals have been confirmed. The remaining 4 victims are still being searched for.

Sharing in the immense grief and loss of the victims’ families, provincial leaders personally met with the families to offer condolences and pledged maximum material and emotional support, including sponsorship for affected children to ensure their education.

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Immediately after the incident, large-scale rescue operations were urgently deployed. The Provincial Military Command reported to the 3rd Military Region, established a forward command post, and mobilized nearly 1,000 personnel along with hundreds of vehicles for the rescue mission. Key forces included military, border guards, provincial police, fisheries surveillance, and special forces. Additionally, over 500 experienced local fishermen assisted in the search for the missing.

High-tech units such as Viettel deployed drones, while specialized teams from the 18th Corps formed a wide-area search network. Command and deployment efforts continued intensively on July 20, especially as Typhoon No. 3 approached, making time-critical operations even more urgent.

Regarding rescue operations and cause investigations, the Deputy Director of Quang Ninh Provincial Police stated that 14 boats and over 200 officers were mobilized immediately after receiving the report. So far, 10 people have been rescued alive, and 35 bodies have been recovered and handed over to families. Forensic identification is being conducted swiftly and accurately.

Authorities are focusing on investigating the accident’s cause and clarifying responsibilities to reach a final conclusion.

Regarding victim support and medical care, the Deputy Director of Quang Ninh Provincial Health Department stated that 12 emergency teams and 31 ambulances were stationed at ferry terminals and the 2nd Fleet to receive victims. Among the 10 survivors, 9 were transferred to the Provincial General Hospital, while 1 was treated at Bai Chay Hospital. Most injuries involved soft tissue damage, psychological shock, or water inhalation, with stable conditions now.

A child and a female tourist were transferred to Hanoi for family convenience. All medical and transportation costs for victims are waived. The provincial health system continues monitoring and treating remaining cases to ensure optimal care.

Search efforts for the missing remain urgent, with hopes of locating the remaining victims soon.

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Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. The bay has a rich geological history dating back over 500 million years and is steeped in local legends, including tales of dragons creating the islands. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering scenic cruises, caves, and vibrant marine life.

Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee

The Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee is the local government body overseeing Quang Ninh Province in northeastern Vietnam, known for its scenic Ha Long Bay. Established to administer regional governance, it plays a key role in economic and social development, particularly in tourism and coal industries. The committee operates from its headquarters in Ha Long City, reflecting the province’s blend of natural heritage and industrial growth.

Quang Ninh Provincial Military Command

The Quang Ninh Provincial Military Command is a key military unit in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, responsible for regional defense and security. Historically, it has played a significant role in safeguarding the northeastern border, particularly during periods of conflict such as the Vietnam War. Today, it continues to support national defense while engaging in local community and disaster relief efforts.

3rd Military Region

The **3rd Military Region** is a key administrative and operational command within a nation’s armed forces, typically responsible for overseeing defense, security, and military operations in a specific geographic area. Its history varies by country, but such regions are often established to streamline military logistics, training, and regional defense strategies. For example, in some nations, military regions were organized during periods of conflict or restructuring to enhance operational efficiency. (Note: Specific details depend on the country in question, as many nations have used similar military regional divisions.)

18th Corps

The “18th Corps” likely refers to the New Fourth Army’s 18th Corps, a key Communist military unit during the Chinese Civil War (1945–1949). Formed from earlier Communist forces, it played a significant role in battles against the Nationalist (Kuomintang) army, contributing to the eventual Communist victory. Its history is tied to the broader revolutionary narrative of the Chinese Communist Party.

If you meant a different “18th Corps,” please provide additional context for a more accurate summary.

Bai Chay Hospital

Bai Chay Hospital is a modern healthcare facility located in Bai Chay, a popular tourist area in Ha Long City, Vietnam. While specific historical details about the hospital are limited, it serves as an important medical center for both locals and visitors in the Quang Ninh Province. Its establishment reflects the region’s development to support growing urban and tourism needs in the Ha Long Bay area.

Provincial General Hospital

The Provincial General Hospital is a key healthcare facility typically serving a specific region or province, offering a range of medical services to the public. Many such hospitals have historical roots dating back to the 19th or early 20th century, often established to address local health needs and epidemics. Over time, they have evolved into modern medical centers, playing a vital role in community health and emergency care. (Note: Specific historical details may vary depending on the location of the hospital.)

2nd Fleet

The **2nd Fleet** refers to a numbered fleet within the United States Navy, originally established in 1950 during the Cold War to oversee operations in the North Atlantic. It was disbanded in 2011 as part of a restructuring but was reactivated in 2018 to counter increasing maritime threats, particularly from Russia, in the North Atlantic and Arctic regions. The fleet plays a key role in ensuring naval readiness and deterrence in strategic waters.