Chinese Tourist Drowns After Being Swept Away by Strong Currents in Rayong

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of responders.

 

An incident occurred on January 7, when a Chinese tourist drowned after being swept away by strong underwater currents while swimming in the sea off Rayong’s Khao Laem Ya National Park.

 

According to police reports, Lt. Col. Sayant Panjarak, Deputy Investigator at Ban Krang Police Station in Klaeng, Rayong, was informed by park officials that the body of a female tourist was found floating near Koh Kudee, approximately 2 kilometres from the original location where the incident occurred.

 

The deceased has been identified as Zhao Liang, a Chinese tourist who had been visiting the area with her boyfriend. The couple had joined a tour group, along with 15 other tourists, on a boat trip from Koh Samet to explore five islands, including a visit to Bat Cave Island in the Charkpong district of Klaeng.

 

While swimming near the island, in what is described as small waves, Zhao was caught by strong currents. The tour boat crew noticed her absence and immediately began searching around the island but could not locate her. Hours later, a team from the Khao Laem Ya National Park discovered her body drifting near Koh Kudee.

 

Authorities have sent the body to Rayong Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. Investigations are underway, including interviews with witnesses, Zhao’s boyfriend, and the tour company staff. The Chinese embassy has been notified to facilitate assistance for the deceased’s family.

 

-- 2025-01-08

 

 

[hotchilli]

Another sea tragedy... safety last

[LennyW]

There are some quite serious currents on the Rayong shores, many lives have been lost, they do fly the red flags when tides are dangerous but people just ignore them, nobody actually patrolling the beaches.

[Briggsy]

The Chinese used to drown on a daily basis in Thailand but now the numbers may be down to as little as one a month. Compulsory use of life vests and better awareness perhaps. Perhaps also fear of the Chinese Embassy kicking off too.