Naklua–
Two men survived a harrowing ordeal at sea after their boat sank during a squid fishing trip. The incident occurred near Koh Jun in Naklua on the evening of September 15th, 2024.
At 10:06 PM, a distress call was received reporting tourists adrift in the sea. The marine rescue team, Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya Rescue Team, and Pattaya Special Affairs Officers swiftly responded to the scene. Upon arrival at the beach near the marine rescue center, they found that the two victims had already been rescued.
The survivors, Mr. Jakkapan Sombat, 35, and Mr. Sumit (surname withheld), 45, were in an exhausted state after floating in the sea for over four hours. They were immediately provided with first aid and transported to the hospital for further care.
Mr. Jakkapan spoke with The Pattaya News about the terrifying experience, explaining that they had taken their 18-foot fiberglass boat out to catch squid. However, a sudden storm struck, with powerful winds and waves overwhelming their boat. The vessel sank quickly, leaving the men stranded in the open sea.
In a stroke of ingenuity, Mr. Jakkapan managed to retrieve a water bottle from the boat’s storage compartment. He emptied it and used it as a flotation device, which kept them afloat several kilometers from shore. Despite the changing wind directions, they continued to drift until they spotted the marine rescue center and shouted for help.
Their cries were heard by Mr. Udomsak Wirasuk, 47, a good Samaritan who noticed the men waving for assistance amidst the strong waves. He promptly navigated his boat to rescue them and alerted the authorities.
The boat remains submerged, but efforts are underway to salvage it. The quick response and bravery of the rescue teams and Mr. Udomsak undoubtedly saved the lives of Mr. Jakkapan and Mr. Sumit.
