UPDATE: Mr Konenkov’s body was found washed ashore at the northern end of Nai Thon Beach just after 3pm today (Aug 21).
Sakhu Police reported that the incident occurred at about 12:30am in front of a resort located between Banana Beach and Nai Thon Beach.
The missing man was named as Denis Konenkov, 35, a Russian national. His girlfriend, Kamila Sharipova, 24, told police the couple had gone swimming when a large wave surged in and dragged Mr Konenkov out to sea.
Police Lt Suphon Muangkhai, Deputy Investigation Officer at Sakhu Police, received the report of the incident at 1:10am and informed Col Salan Santisasanakul, the station superintendent.
Rescue workers from the Sakhu Tambon Administrative Organisation (OrBorTor) were dispatched to the scene but were unable to conduct an immediate search due to darkness and strong waves.
A coordinated search resumed at first light today, with divers and rescue teams from the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation deploying rubber dinghies alongside local officials to scour the waters for the missing tourist.
Officials confirmed the search operation would continue throughout the afternoon.