Hong Kong tourist among six dead after Thai ferry 'with not enough life vests' sinks
Not enough tubes or life vests on ferry, according to witnesses
A tourist from Hong Kong was one of six people who died when an overcrowded ferry capsized and sank near a popular Thai resort yesterday.
Another Hongkonger was injured, according to an official from the Chinese embassy in Thailand, Xinhua reported. A tourist from Guangdong was also injured.
Hong Kong's Immigration Department said it was trying to find out more from the embassy.
The double-decker ferry, carrying about 200 Thai and foreign tourists, left Lan island for the 30-minute trip to Pattaya in the evening, said police colonel Suwan Cheawnavinthavat.
Witnesses said there were neither enough tubes nor life vests on the ferry. Some who cannot swim had to cling onto coolers or ice containers until rescuers came
Shortly after the boat departed, an engine problem sent the passengers on the first deck rushing to the second floor, causing the ferry to flip on its side and eventually sink.