Vietnam suspends tour company after boat sinking

HANOI, Vietnam Deputy Director Mai Tien Dung of the Hanoi Department of Culture and Tourism said Monday that AZ Queen Company was fined 15 million dong or $700 and was ordered to suspend all domestic and international services for operating without a license.

The boat sank last month when a broken pipe allowed water to leak into the vessel that was anchored for the night in Ha Long Bay. Eleven travelers from nine countries and their local guide died.

The boat captain and the engine man have been arrested and charged with serious negligence that carries a jail term of up to 12 years.