PHUKET, Thailand – One German tourist was rescued while another remains missing after rough seas swept two German visitors into the water at Freedom Beach in Karon, Phuket, on August 10.
Karon Police received a report of the incident after the two tourists were caught in strong waves while swimming at the beach. Police and relevant rescue agencies were immediately notified and sent to the scene.
The tourists were identified as 30-year-old Jannik Juergen Nobel and 28-year-old Anduk Michelle. Both had been staying at Two Villas Holiday Phuket Onyx Style Nai Harn Beach in Sakhu, Thalang, from August 5 to 11. According to the initial report, the pair entered the sea at Freedom Beach before strong waves and currents swept them away from the shore. Lifeguards stationed at the beach immediately entered the water and managed to bring Anduk Michelle safely back to shore. Nobel, however, was swept further out to sea and disappeared from sight.
Search teams were mobilized and began looking for the missing tourist. However, strong waves and rough conditions, combined with falling darkness, made the operation increasingly dangerous for rescuers. The offshore search was temporarily suspended.
On August 11, authorities were still unable to resume a full maritime search because of continued rough seas. Search teams instead focused on the shoreline and rocky areas around Freedom Beach while monitoring sea conditions. Officials said the maritime search would resume when conditions become safe enough for rescuers to operate. Authorities continue to coordinate the search and investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
