Phuket police officer rescues three tourists from drowning at Nai Yang Beach
A Sakhu police officer used a surfboard to reach three tourists caught in dangerous waves at Nai Yang Beach after they entered the sea despite a red flag.
Three tourists were rescued after being caught in dangerous waves at Nai Yang Beach in Phuket on 27 September, with an off-duty police officer using a surfboard to reach them, Daily News reported.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Kraisorn Chomchuen, deputy superintendent for prevention and suppression at Sakhu Police Station, was walking outside his home, about 100 metres from the incident, when a local resident alerted him to people drowning.
He said he first went to look for the beach’s lifeguards but could not find any because several incidents were taking place at the same time. Seeing at least three tourists in difficulty, he took a surfboard prepared near the beach and went into the sea.
Bystanders and a fishing boat then helped bring the tourists safely ashore, according to the report.
Kraisorn said large waves struck him as he paddled towards the group, repeatedly rolling him over and submerging him. He said his only thought at the time was to save the people in the water.
Sakhu police superintendent Police Colonel Salan Santisasanakul praised Kraisorn, saying officers had been instructed to remain ready for emergencies at all times. He said the officer had acted without hesitation despite being off duty.
