PHUKET, Thailand – An off-duty police officer sprang into action to rescue three tourists caught in powerful waves at Nai Yang Beach on 27 September, paddling out on a surfboard when no lifeguards could be found.

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Police Lieutenant Colonel Kraisorn Chomchuen, deputy superintendent for prevention and suppression at Sakhu Police Station, was outside his home about 100 metres away when a local resident raised the alarm. He first searched for the beach’s lifeguards but found none, as multiple emergencies were unfolding simultaneously. Spotting at least three tourists in trouble, he grabbed a surfboard kept near the beach and headed into the sea.

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Bystanders and a fishing boat helped bring the tourists safely ashore. Kraisorn described being battered by large waves that repeatedly rolled him over and pulled him under, saying his only thought was to save the people in the water.

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Sakhu police superintendent Police Colonel Salan Santisasanakul praised the officer, noting that personnel are instructed to stay ready for emergencies at all times and that Kraisorn acted without hesitation despite being off duty.

-Thailand News (TN)