A British traveler is missing and presumed dead following a fire that broke out on a diving boat near Thailand’s notorious ‘Death Island.’ The backpacker, believed to be from Lambeth, was reportedly caught in the blaze while using the boat’s toilet as the engine caught fire near Koh Tao on Sunday morning.
Authorities reported that the boat, named Davy Jones Locker, was carrying at least 16 tourists, two crew members, and four scuba diving instructors when the incident occurred. While most of the individuals were rescued by passing boats, the British tourist remained unaccounted for as the flames spread rapidly.
The fire was fueled by compressed air in the tanks and onboard fuel, causing extensive damage to the vessel. Video footage captured the intense flames engulfing the boat’s rear cabin as onlookers from nearby boats watched in shock.
According to Captain Natthaphon Sinpoonphon, the fire started around 9 am local time during a diving excursion from Koh Tao, approximately five to six nautical miles away from the island. Emergency services, private vessels, and volunteers collaborated to evacuate the passengers and crew to safety while working to contain the fire.
Rescue efforts were initially hindered by the raging flames and concerns of potential explosions from onboard tanks and fuel. Search and rescue teams were mobilized to locate the missing British tourist, with challenging sea conditions complicating the operation.
Koh Tao, a popular scuba diving destination, has gained notoriety as ‘Death Island’ due to past incidents involving young tourists in mysterious circumstances. The island’s safety record has been questioned, with calls for caution from legal and advocacy figures due to reported crime, corruption, and safety concerns.
This developing news story underscores the dangers faced by tourists in the region, prompting ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of visitors. For more updates on this incident and other breaking news stories, follow reputable news sources for the latest information.