HK captains charged in fatal ferry crash

HONG KONG - Two Hong Kong captains who were involved in the deadly ferry collision last year were charged separately with 39 counts of manslaughter Thursday.

Rescuers approach a partially-submerged boat after two vessels collided in Hong Kong, Oct 1, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

Their two vessels collided off Yung Shue Wan Pier of Lamma Island on October 1 last year, resulting in the deaths of 39 passengers and the injuries of 92 others. It was the most serious maritime accident in Hong Kong over the past 40 years.

Police arrested the two men, aged 54 and 56, respectively, on October 2, along with five other crew members, who will answer bail in mid-April.

Investigations conducted after the tragedy have indicated that the accident was resulted from human errors.