A Belgian tourist has died in a kite surfing accident in Pranburi after being swept into a rock crevice at Khao Kalok by strong winds.
The man, identified as 55-year-old Brendan, became trapped nearly four metres deep inside the crevice. Rescue efforts were hampered by rough sea conditions, delaying the retrieval of his body until the tide receded.
The incident occurred on 12 January 2025 near Thao Ko Sa Forest Park at Khao Kapok in Pak Nam Pran Subdistrict, Pranburi District.
Pak Nam Pran Police Radio Centre received a report that a foreign tourist had been caught by strong waves and wind while kite surfing, resulting in him becoming trapped in the rocks at Khao Kalok. Senior official Jakkrachai Kheowkrajang, acting district chief of Pranburi, coordinated a rescue operation involving multiple agencies.
Rescuers faced considerable challenges as high waves and strong winds made it too dangerous to approach the area by boat or jet ski. Additionally, the exact location of the victim was initially unclear. The tourist’s Thai girlfriend and his mother, who had arrived in Thailand two days earlier, waited anxiously for updates during the operation.
Authorities deployed a drone to survey the area, eventually locating the man, who was seen wearing an orange sports shirt and blue shorts, lying face down in a rock crevice. Footage from the drone indicated that the tourist had been in the same position for over two to three hours.
Despite repeated attempts to survey the site, rescuers were unable to approach immediately due to the high tide and hazardous conditions. The operation was postponed until the tide receded near dusk to minimise risks to the rescue team. Once conditions improved and the location was confirmed, the rescue team was able to retrieve Brendan’s body before nightfall.
His body was later returned to his grieving mother. Authorities have urged caution for those engaging in water sports during periods of rough seas and strong winds.
Khao Kalok, a popular site for outdoor enthusiasts, often attracts visitors for kite surfing and other water activities. However, changing weather conditions can create dangerous situations for those participating in extreme sports.
Local officials have expressed their condolences to the victim’s family and continue to remind the public to stay informed about weather forecasts before engaging in water-based activities.
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