Phuket –
Three male tourists defied red flag warnings and entered the water at Karon Beach on Thursday, leading to a rescue operation that left one man missing and two others hospitalized.
According to local authorities, the incident occurred amid strong winds and rough surf conditions on Saturday (September 20th). Despite clear red flag indicators prohibiting swimming, the group ventured into the sea and was quickly swept away by a powerful rip current.
Lifeguards stationed at the beach responded swiftly to cries for help, successfully rescuing two individuals—Mr. Ahmed Ramadhan Almeshkhas and Mr. Mohamed Ramadhan Almeshkhas. Mr. Mohamed sustained minor injuries and was treated at Patong Hospital. He has since been discharged and is in stable condition. Their nationalities were not identified.
However, the third member of the group, Mr. Jasim Abdali Almeshkhas, remains missing as of press time. Rescue teams have been conducting continuous search operations along the shoreline and in surrounding waters, but as of Friday evening, no trace has been found.
Beach officials confirmed that red flags were prominently displayed at the time of the incident, signaling hazardous conditions and a strict no-swimming advisory.
Authorities urge all visitors to respect warning signs and lifeguard instructions to prevent further loss of life.
