Australian tourists save drowning woman in HCMC

At approximately 2 p.m., Nguyen Hoa of the Saigon River Tour Co was navigating his motorboat with five Australian tourists on a tour between Districts 1 and Cu Chi. As they approached the Saigon Bridge in Binh Thanh District, the boat operator heard cries for help from people fishing along the riverbank. Responding to the distress calls, Hoa saw a woman, estimated to be in her 50s, struggling in the water nearby. Without hesitation, the boat operator maneuvered towards the distressed woman.

Two of the Australian tourists, a man and a woman, acted swiftly by putting on life jackets and courageously jumping into the water to rescue the struggling woman. Their prompt and effective response played a crucial role in ensuring the woman's safety. The entire rescue operation, from the initial distress call to successfully bringing the woman on board, took approximately two minutes.

Following the rescue, the woman was handed over to the local authorities, and a preliminary investigation revealed that she was attempting to take her own life. The Australian tourists' intervention not only averted a tragedy but also showcased the importance of quick thinking and solidarity in emergency situations.

The incident highlights the potential for individuals, even tourists in unfamiliar settings, to make a significant impact in unforeseen circumstances. The Saigon River rescue serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant and ready to respond to emergencies, contributing to the overall safety and well-being of communities.