Body believed to be missing officer found on Phuket beach

A body believed to be a missing police officer was found washed ashore at Nai Thon Beach in Phuket on the morning of May 17, two days after the man was swept into the sea. Police said villagers reported the discovery at about 6.30am near a shrine in Sakhu subdistrict, Thalang.

The deceased is believed to be 25-year-old Lt Pol Capt Thaphanpapop, a deputy inspector from a police station in Phang Nga province. Relatives will be asked to formally confirm the identity before religious rites are arranged.

Strong waves swept swimmer offshore on May 15

The man had gone swimming at Nai Thon Beach on May 15 during strong winds and waves reported at more than two metres high. He was then swept offshore and disappeared.

Lifeguards tried to reach him but could not complete the rescue because of the current, officials said. A silver Toyota Camry bearing Chiang Rai registration plates was later found parked nearby.

Forensic examination points to death about two days earlier

Police and forensic doctors from Vachira Phuket Hospital examined the scene and found the body of a middle-aged Thai man wearing only black underwear. The remains had begun to decompose and showed abrasions on several parts of the body.

Officials said the injuries were believed to have been caused by waves and sand as the body moved in the sea. Initial examination indicated the man had died about two days earlier.

The body was sent to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a detailed post-mortem examination, according to Khaosod.

A similar drowning happened last year at Laem Sing Beach, where a man was swept into the sea by a wave while fishing. He was later pronounced dead on arrival at Patong Hospital.

Source: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/body-believed-missing-police-officer-found-phuket-beach