In a tragic incident that unfolded on March 27, 2025, in Cam Van commune, Cam Thuy district of Thanh Hoa province, two students went missing while swimming in the Ma River. The students, Le Dinh C., a sixth-grader, and Nguyen Van H., a seventh-grader, were part of a group of four friends who ventured to a rocky beach near their village to enjoy a day off from school.
According to reports, the group was playing at the riverbank when the two boys drowned, prompting an urgent search operation that continued into the night and resumed early the next morning. Mr. Nguyen Thanh Son, the Head of the Department of Education and Training for Cam Thuy district, confirmed that local authorities and police have been actively engaged in the search efforts since the incident was reported.
On the afternoon of March 27, after finishing their school day, the boys, along with two other classmates, decided to head to the river, approximately 300 meters from the under-construction Cam Van bridge. As they swam, they encountered difficulties and went under, leading to their disappearance.
At the scene, family members and local residents discovered personal belongings belonging to the boys, including bicycles, clothing, and sandals, which were left on the riverbank. This discovery heightened the urgency of the search efforts, as it confirmed the boys' presence at the location prior to their disappearance.
As of the morning of March 28, search teams, including the Fire and Rescue Police Department of Thanh Hoa province, had not yet located the missing children. The search was complicated by the river's deep waters and rocky terrain, making it difficult for rescuers to navigate safely. Colonel Phung Xuan Tien, Deputy Director of the Thanh Hoa Provincial Police, was present at the site to oversee the rescue operations.
In the early hours of March 28, the Fire and Rescue Police Department mobilized additional personnel and equipment to enhance the search operation. Despite the challenging conditions, they remained committed to finding the boys. "We are doing everything we can to locate them," stated a police officer involved in the search.
Local authorities have expressed their condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. Mr. Pham Thanh Phuong, Principal of Cam Van Secondary School, remarked on the heartbreaking nature of the incident, emphasizing the community's solidarity during this difficult time. "We are all praying for their safe return," he said.
The search and rescue operation continues to draw attention from the local community, with many residents offering support to the families of the missing boys. The incident has prompted discussions about the safety of children swimming in rivers, particularly in areas known for strong currents and deep waters.
As the search efforts persist, the families of Le Dinh C. and Nguyen Van H. remain hopeful for a positive outcome. Community members have gathered to provide emotional support, sharing in the collective hope that the boys will be found safe.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with swimming in natural bodies of water, especially for young children. Authorities are urging parents to remain vigilant and ensure the safety of their children when engaging in recreational activities.
As search teams continue their efforts, the community stands united in hope and support for the families affected by this tragic event.
