Authorities are scrambling to locate Dương Minh Toàn, a fisherman who went missing off the coast of Phan Thiết on February 21. The incident occurred when Toàn fell overboard from the fishing vessel BTh 83918 TS, which was about 13 nautical miles south-east of the port.
The trawler, under the command of Captain Đặng Thành, had seven crew members onboard when the unfortunate event transpired. According to reports, Toàn (born 1981) was lost to the sea during regular fishing operations using net gear.
Following the incident, Captain Thành made urgent requests for assistance to two nearby fishing boats. Despite their efforts, the search for Toàn yielded no results.
Upon receiving the distress call, the Provincial Border Guard Command alerted other vessels and fishermen operating within the vicinity, urging them to be vigilant and assist with the search operations.
Simultaneously, the distress was communicated to the Regional Maritime Search and Rescue Center III, alongside the Vietnam Coast Guard Command Region 3, and the Navy Command Region 4 to leverage additional resources for the search.
Weather conditions posed significant challenges. According to meteorological reports, the area was experiencing northeast winds of force 5 to 6, with gusts reaching force 7. The sea waves were reported to be between 2 to 3.5 meters high, making search efforts hazardous.
The local community and crew members remain anxious as rescue operations continue, with many relying on prayers for Toàn's safe return. Efforts are expected to resume as conditions permit. Authorities are committed to doing everything within their power to locate the missing fisherman.
Community members have begun reaching out for support, sharing updates on social media to spread awareness about the situation. Such instances reflect the tight-knit nature of the fishing community, and there remains hope among family and friends for Toàn’s safe discovery.