30-7-2024 (BANGKOK) The search for a missing Chinese tourist came to a sorrowful conclusion this morning as local authorities discovered the body of 27-year-old Qin Yuen near Freedom Beach in Phuket. The grim discovery marks another tragic incident in a series of water-related fatalities that have plagued the popular Thai island in recent months.
Mr Qin had been reported missing on Friday evening after venturing into treacherous waters at Karon Beach, despite the presence of red ‘no swimming’ flags warning of dangerous conditions. His disappearance sparked an extensive search operation involving Karon Police, lifeguards, rescue workers, and even a Royal Thai Navy helicopter.
Local fisherman Phacharadanai Kingjam stumbled upon the body at approximately 9am today, alerting the authorities to its location on the rocky shoreline. Rescue workers, utilising a dinghy, recovered Mr Qin’s remains and transported them to shore via Pak Bang Canal at Kata Beach. The body has since been transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where a thorough post-mortem examination will be conducted to ascertain the precise cause of death.
This incident adds to a worrying trend of drownings in Phuket, particularly among foreign tourists visiting the island’s western beaches. Just days prior, on 24 July, a 27-year-old Indian tourist lost his life at Surin Beach after being caught in a powerful rip current during an early morning swim.
The frequency of such tragedies has prompted local authorities to call for more robust safety measures. Viroon Chuasaman, Head Lifeguard at Surin-Bang Tao Beach, recently advocated for intensive educational campaigns to inform tourists about the dangers posed by rip currents and strong waves, especially during the southwest monsoon season.
These incidents underscore the critical importance of heeding safety warnings and respecting the power of the ocean. As Phuket continues to attract visitors from around the globe, balancing tourism with safety remains a pressing concern for local authorities and lifeguards alike.
