Accident Tragic Discovery: Missing Saudi Tourist Found Dead in Phuket

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Picture courtesy of Surin-Bang Tao Lifeguards

 

In a tragic development, the body of 22-year-old Saudi tourist Dhaher Suhayb Mohammed S was discovered today near Layan Beach, Cherng Talay, following his disappearance on 26 July whilst swimming at Bang Tao Beach. Lifeguards found him early near Sirinat National Park, clad only in swimming trunks.

 

Dhaher vanished after being swept out to sea when swimming with friends, all fellow Saudi nationals. While locals managed to rescue two from the strong currents, Dhaher could not be saved. The alarm was raised at 5:30 p.m., prompting a multi-day search hampered by treacherous surf and tides.

 

Cherng Talay Police, accompanied by Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation rescue workers, conducted an initial examination of the body, which has been sent for forensic analysis to confirm identity and cause of death. The Saudi Embassy has been notified, and his family are organising religious arrangements.

 

Meanwhile, in a separate incident, efforts continue to find Chetthawut Hom, a 22-year-old jet-ski operator who went missing near Naka Yai Island on 27 July. He reportedly fell from a jet ski around 7:10 p.m. without a life jacket while working for Kai Naka Co Ltd.

 

Warisara Muthametharit, a witness, alerted authorities, sparking a coordinated search by local agencies and dive teams. Despite these efforts, Chetthawut remains unaccounted for, with a dedicated search centre established to oversee the operation.

 

Leading the inquiries in these incidents are Police Lieutenant Colonel Anukul Nuket and Police Lieutenant Colonel Warawut Seb Sob under Thalang Police Superintendent Police Colonel Nikorn Chuathong. In Cherng Talay, the investigation is led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Kittipong Nupheng with oversight from Superintendent Police Colonel Ekkarat Phlaiduang.

 

Authorities have stressed the importance of exercising caution when swimming, particularly during the southwest monsoon season, notorious for the hazardous rip currents along Phuket’s west coast. These events highlight the urgent need for safety awareness among tourists and residents alike.

 

While rescue teams persist in their search, the local community continues to grapple with these distressing events, reminding all of the powerful unpredictability of nature.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-29