PHUKET — A Russian man is missing after being swept away by powerful waves while swimming off a Phuket beach shortly after midnight on Thursday. Rescue teams, including divers, have launched a search operation despite challenging sea conditions, the Bangkok Post reported.

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The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. in front of a hotel between Banana and Nai Thon beaches in Thalang district. Police and rescue units were alerted and met the missing man’s girlfriend, 24-year-old K.S., at the scene. She explained that she and her 35-year-old boyfriend, D.K., had entered the water for a late-night swim when strong waves struck. The man pushed her toward safety but was himself pulled out to sea and vanished.

Rescuers are searching for a Russian man who went missing after being swept away by strong waves while swimming off a Phuket beach shortly after midnight.

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Due to darkness and rough waters, initial search efforts were postponed. On Thursday morning, divers from the Kusoltam Phuket rescue foundation resumed the operation, scouring the area where the man was last seen.

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Authorities have warned swimmers to heed red-flag warnings and avoid entering the sea during dangerous conditions, especially after dark. The search continues as officials work to locate the missing tourist.

-Thailand News (TN)