A British man has died while swimming off the coast of Thailand, despite red flags warning him not to go into the water.
The 43-year-old businessman was said to have been caught in strong waves off Phuket’s Karon Beach. Currents were said to be so strong that whirlpools were visible on the water’s surface. Police said the man had been out with friends and was swimming with one of them when he was swept underwater.
A friend on shore raised the alarm and helped bring him back to the beach, where he was resuscitated by lifeguards. However, despite the efforts of emergency medical personnel who rushed to the scene, attempts to resuscitate the British man failed and he died a short time later.
Thai authorities claimed he had ignored prominent security signals along the coast. Commenting on the dangers of the ocean, Lieutenant Colonel Eekkasak Fanwan said: “The sea off the coast of Phuket is very dangerous but even more dangerous than usual at this time of year. There are hidden currents which can cause disorientation.” It is important that everyone avoids going into the water, even if they are experienced swimmers. Red flags have been put up at the most dangerous parts of the beach.”
Karon police chief Colonel Khundet Na Nong Kai added: “The incident happened at about 4.10pm. The victim came in a group of six or so people.
There were seven tourists in the group, one of whom had been playing in the water with him while the other was on the beach and raised the alarm, and lifeguards came to his aid.” The fatal accident happened in an area with strong rip currents and whirlpools.
Karon and Kata beaches are extremely dangerous and are marked with red flags indicating no swimming is permitted. The victim may not have noticed the flags or may have deliberately ignored the warnings before going to play.
He was then sucked into the canal and unable to withstand the current. When police arrived at the scene of the accident paramedics were already administering resuscitation to the man. He was taken to hospital but later died.”
The uae breaking has contacted the UK Foreign Office for comment. Phuket, a popular holiday destination on Thailand’s West Andaman coast, experiences deadly tides and powerful waves during the September to December monsoon season.