PHUKET — A Russian tourist lost his life in a tragic jet ski incident off Karon Beach in Phuket, Thailand on Tuesday evening. The victim, identified as Mr. Kirill, 58, was reported missing after being involved in a jet ski collision at sea.
The incident came to light when a fellow tourist sought help at a nearby beach shop. The shop owner, 29-year-old Jate, immediately alerted the Karon Police Station. While video footage of the sea area was provided, the actual collision was not captured on camera.
Local authorities, including the Pak Bang Water Rescue Center and various rescue foundations, launched an immediate search operation. At approximately 12:45 a.m. on December 18, local fishermen discovered the victim’s body trapped among rocks in the water.
Medical examiners from Vachira Phuket Hospital conducted a preliminary examination, estimating the time of death between 2-4 hours before discovery. No visible wounds were found on the body, and a full autopsy will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation. The Russian Embassy has been notified to contact the deceased’s relatives.
This incident occurred amid an ongoing crackdown on illegal jet ski operations in Phuket. On the same day, maritime authorities conducted inspections around Laem Nga, Mali Island, and Pae Island, where they discovered 18 unlicensed jet skis.
Operators of these illegal vessels face fines of up to 10,000 baht per vessel under the Thai Waters Navigation Act and are prohibited from providing services until they comply with legal requirements.
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