Survivors speak out after fatal submarine sinking in Red Sea

A devastating submarine accident off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, in the Red Sea has claimed six lives. The Sindbad submarine, carrying Russian tourists, capsized while diving, leaving survivors in shock.

The Russian Embassy in Egypt confirmed that all passengers aboard were Russian citizens. Of the 45 individuals onboard, 39 were rescued while six tragically lost their lives.

Survivors describe moments of horror

Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the accident. Survivors have described the terrifying moments as the submarine began to sink. Elena Boldavera, a Russian national who survived the incident, recalled how the submarine started its descent with its hatches open, causing panic among those inside.

“Some managed to escape by swimming to the surface,” she said. Elena and her husband survived, but her daughter and mother were hospitalized due to serious conditions.

She also emphasized that initial aid came from people on nearby boats.

A close call for many

An anonymous survivor who spoke to the Russian press stated, “As my family, and I were boarding, the submarine suddenly started diving with its hatches open.” The survivor added that crew members responsible for loading passengers screamed, “Stop, stop, stop!” while trying to push people back onto the dock.

A witness who spoke to the BBC confirmed that emergency services arrived swiftly after the vessel capsized.

Presumed dead, later found alive

Initial reports claimed that 39-year-old pediatrician Kristina Valiullin had perished in the disaster.

However, it was later revealed that she had survived and been reunited with her children.

Possible cause: Pressure loss?

Governor of the Red Sea, Amr Hanafi, confirmed that, alongside the 45 tourists, five Egyptian crew members were also aboard the submarine. He stated the vessel was operating under a valid license.

Out of the 39 rescued passengers, 29 were taken to hospitals for treatment. Hanafi assured the public that there were no missing persons.

According to reports in the Russian media, the submarine may have collided with a coral reef, leading to a potential “pressure loss” that contributed to the catastrophe.

Authorities continue to investigate the tragic incident, seeking to determine the exact cause of the accident and prevent similar disasters in the future.

The Russian government has pledged support for its citizens affected by the catastrophe.