Many local residents have been flocking to the seaside of Chau Thuan Village, in the central province of Quang Ngai, to look antiques from an old sunken ship despite the prevention measures of authorities.

Inspecting antiques

After word got out that the ship was found close to the village on the morning of September 8, roughly 30 metres from the shore and at a depth of three metres, many locals have taken it upon themselves to dive for sunken treasure. More than 200 antiques, estimated to be worth of billions of VND have been retrieved.

The ship, which sunk centuries ago, is covered in sand, causing locals to use various means, such as underwater vacuum machines. But the authorities see these activities as a threat to peace in the locality. Many traders have also come to make profits from the bounty.

A number of antique objects were sold for millions of VND to traders, which encouraged further 'exploration' by locals. The provincial defense and security forces have been deployed to secure the area around the ship.

Many of these objects were damaged in the rush to collect valuable items.

Le Thi Chung, Deputy Director of Quang Ngai Museum, said, “Initial inspection on the items found, such as bowls, vases and other pottery showed that they originated from China, 15th century Minh Dynasty.”

She added that, at that time Binh Chau was a trading hub and saw a large amount of maritime activity. In 1999 there was another such vessel discovered off the coast by Quang Ngai Museum. This one also had Chinese wares, and dated from the 17th century.

Currently, the local authorities are occupied with ensuring the preservation of the ship and its cargo.

Many objects damaged in the rush

Vacuums used by treasure hunters

 Rush to the sea to find valuables

The search goes on