Thai man ignores red flags, nearly drowns
PHUKET: A Thai tourist nearly drowned on Wednesday after he ignored red flag warnings and went swimming at Kata Beach.
About 4pm, 27-year-old Athithan Kanjanawattanakun reportedly disappeared into the water. Lifeguards and Royal Thai Navy search and rescue personnel managed to recover him while he was still conscious.
Mr Athithan received first aid at the scene and was then sent to Patong Hospital for further treatment.
Bystanders said that Mr Athithan may have been caught up in a rip current.
Representatives from the rescue team told the Phuket Gazette that at least three other Thai tourists were saved from drowning the same day.
— Kongleaphy Keam
