Pattaya —
A Russian tourist in an intoxicated state sparked a late-night drama on Saturday as he jumped into the Pattaya sea from Bali Hai Pier and attempted to climb onto a yacht.
The unidentified man, a 30-40 year old Russian national, was spotted by a witness, Mr. Nikorn Buntham, who was fishing at the pier around 11 PM on January 20th. Mr. Nikorn observed the tourist walking unsteadily before plunging into the sea. Concerned for his safety, Mr. Nikorn immediately notified the authorities.
Upon arrival, officers from the Pattaya Police Station, Pattaya Tourist Police, and sea rescue personnel saw the man trying to swim to a yacht anchored 300 meters offshore. The yacht’s crew, upon seeing him, threw a lifebuoy to save his life. With the combined efforts of officers and crew, the tourist was successfully pulled from the water and brought back to shore.
According to Pattaya police, the disoriented man was found to be carrying a bag containing marijuana. He admitted to smoking it prior to the incident and claimed it made him jump into the sea. The tourist was taken to a local hospital for further medical attention.
