Body of missing Chinese tourist washes ashore

The body of a 27-year-old Chinese tourist, who went missing in the perilous surf at Karon Beach on Friday, has been found on the rocks near Freedom Beach this morning (July 29).

Discovery by Local Fisherman

Local fisherman Phacharadanai Kingjam discovered the body and promptly alerted the authorities at around 9 am. This tragic discovery ends the search for the tourist, identified as Qin Yuen, which began after his girlfriend reported him missing on Friday evening (July 26).

Extensive Search Efforts

The search for Mr. Qin involved a coordinated effort by Karon Police, lifeguards, rescue workers, and even a Royal Thai Navy helicopter. Despite their best efforts, the search was hampered by heavy weather conditions over the weekend, making it unsafe to continue in certain areas.

Recovery and Next Steps

Rescue workers recovered Mr. Qin's body using a dinghy and brought it ashore at Pak Bang Canal, Kata Beach. From there, it was transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital. A forensic doctor will conduct a thorough autopsy to confirm the cause of death before releasing the body to Mr. Qin's relatives for religious ceremonies.

Ignoring Safety Warnings

It has been reported that Mr. Qin ignored red 'no swimming' flags to enter the water at Karon Beach. Lifeguards had marked this area as too dangerous for swimming, highlighting the critical importance of adhering to safety warnings.

Recent Drownings in Phuket

Mr. Qin's death is part of a troubling trend of drownings in Phuket, particularly among foreign tourists at the island's west coast beaches. Just recently, a 27-year-old Indian tourist drowned at Surin Beach after being caught in a rip current during an early morning swim with friends on July 24.

Calls for Enhanced Safety Measures

Viroon Chuasaman, Head Lifeguard at Surin-Bang Tao Beach, has called for intensive campaigns to educate tourists about the dangers of rip currents and strong waves during the southwest monsoon season. He emphasized that current lifeguard efforts are only addressing the symptoms of the problem, rather than its root cause. Mr. Viroon has urged the Tourism Authority of Thailand to actively promote awareness about the dangers of ignoring red flag warnings during the monsoon season to help reduce the number of drownings at popular tourist beaches.

Conclusion

This tragic incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety warnings and the need for comprehensive education campaigns to inform tourists about the dangers of Phuket’s beaches during the monsoon season. As the island mourns the loss of Mr. Qin, efforts must be intensified to prevent further tragedies and ensure the safety of all visitors.