The 56 meter long, 1024 dwt freighter Lam Hong 26 sank in the Gulf of Tonkin near Hai Phong, Vietnam. The Lam Hong 26 had become disabled when its propeller had become entangled. The vessel went adrift in heavy winds and developed a significant list. The crew requested assistance with a rescue vessel responding. All eight crew were safely rescued before the Lam Hong 26 sank. The vessel was carrying iron ore from Nghe An to China.
The 78 meter long bulk freighter Vinacomin 03 collided with its sistership 78 meter long freighter Vinacomin 02 in the Gulf of Tonkin off Vietnam. The Vinacomin 03 was leaving from Quang Ninh Hon La with 2,900 tons of coal while the Vinacomin 02 was headed to Quang Ninh Hon La. The Vinacomin 02 struck into the Vinacomin 03 hull. Its cargo holds quickly flooded and the vessel sank in 50 meters of water. The Vinacomin 02 recovered 13 of the 14 crew from the Vinacomin 03. The missing crewman was later rescued. The Vinacomin 02 suffered some damage to its bow, but was able to proceed under its own power. Reports state the Vinacomin 03 may not be salvaged due to the high cost. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
The 46 meter long, 907 dwt coastal freighter Tra Ly 18 sank in the Gulf of Tonkin near Vinh, Vietnam. The freighter was en route to Quang Ngai from Hai Phongwith 500 tons of bulk cement when it suffered water ingress. The crew was unable to stop the flooding and sent out a distress call. A nearby freighter, Hoang Vu 1, responded and rescued all crewmen from the Tra Ly 18. No reports of injuries. There are conflicting reports to number of crew reported on board the Tra Ly 18 (8 to 18 persons).
