Dramatic landslide rescue in Phuket
PHUKET: A dramatic rescue effort took place to try and save two construction workers trapped in the rubble when a hillside came down behind Soi Nanai in Patong around 3pm yesterday afternoon (February 6).
Nattha Thepbamrung
Thursday 7 February 2013, 12:29AM
Phuket construction worker Sanit Liponkade, 49, was buried in the landslide and died instantly from severe head injuries.
Injured when the hillside came crashing down was Wad Timthong, 73, who miraculously escaped the rubble with only minor injuries.
Photographs show a dramatic rescue taking place yesterday, with onlookers desperately trying to pull both men from out of the rubble.
Police confirmed to The Phuket News both men were working on a steep construction site about one kilometre up the hill.
Kathu Police Lt Tawatchai Simai told The Phuket News Mr Sanit was standing in the direct path of the landslide, and was killed instantly. His body was taken to Patong Hospital, where his relatives, including wife Somying Tamlo and adult son, were grieving.
The landslide occurred on a construction site on private land, and the development taking place was not a resort or hotel.
When The Phuket News visited the site late yesterday afternoon following the incident, it was closed and no one was working.
Police said Mr Sanit's family accepted the event was an accident and would not pursue criminal charges.
