Body of missing man found off Nai Thon

PHUKET: The body of a man who was swept out to sea at Nai Thon Beach last night was found washed up on a private beach this afternoon about two kilometers south of the spot where he disappeared.

“Staff from the Andaman White Beach Resort spotted the body of Wichit Sophon, 30, who was reported missing at about 8pm last night by his girlfriend, Sompong Noinak (story here),” confirmed Saku Police Lt Kriangkrai Prawat.

“Ms Sompong identified the body as being that of Mr Wichit. We suspect he hit his head on rocks,” said Lt Kriangkrai.

Mr Wichit was swept out to sea while walking along Nai Thon Beach with his friend Athid Sensuk, who reported that they were both engulfed by a powerful wave. Mr Athid managed to hold on to a rock, but Mr Wichit was washed away by the strong waves.

Rough conditions last night prevented rescue workers from launching a search party until this morning.

Mr Wichit’s body was taken to Thalang hospital to identify the cause of death. His family will transport his body to his hometown in Buriram Province.

— Winai Sarot