Phuket –
Thai authorities are searching for Jannik Jürgen Knobel, a 30-year-old German national, who went missing after entering the sea at Freedom Beach in Phuket province on August 10, when strong winds and rough waves prompted officials to display red warning flags.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin ordered the Royal Forest Department to mobilize personnel after receiving a report from Nikorn Sirarotchananon, director-general of the Royal Forest Department. Officials were alerted at about 3:49 p.m., prompting police, rescue teams, local authorities, and disaster-response personnel to begin a coordinated search.
The operation was suspended at about 6 p.m. because of fading daylight and hazardous sea conditions that could endanger rescue personnel, and was due to resume when conditions improved. Officials also assisted Knobel’s relatives in contacting the German Embassy in Thailand and filing a report with Karon Police Station.
Suchart directed authorities to provide full support for the search while prioritizing the safety of rescue personnel and assisting the tourist’s family. Officials also urged beachgoers to follow safety warnings and avoid entering the sea when red flags are displayed.
