“We are still searching by Marine Police, Pa Khlok Municipality rescue workers and local people,” Kittipong Sengsut of the Phuket Marine Police told The Phuket News today.
“We will continue searching until we find his body,” he added.
“Today we are still searching but the weather has made it difficult and depending on how dangerous it is at times we have had to halt the search for safety reasons,” Mr Kittipong explained.
The search teams have split into two groups to cover the area more effectively, he said.
One group comprising mostly locals is focussed on searching around Naka Yai Island, while the Marine Police boat is searching the area around Naka Noi Island.
“We did this as the Marine Police boat is to large to access some areas closer to shore near Naka Yai Island, so the locals and their longtail boats are better equipped to search there,” Mr Kittipong said.
“Also, We are keeping in mind that at this time of year the current through this passage is very strong, and so the Marine Police boat is also searching other areas where the passage opens onto Phang Nga Bay,” he added.
Mr Koset was last seen at about 3:30pm on Tuesday between Naka Yai Island and Naka Noi Island. A team of about 10 to 15 jet-skis were sent out to find him, but with no success.
Mr Koset was not wearing a life jacket and cannot swim, police noted. (See story here.)
The search resumed on Wednesday and Thursday, again without success. (See story here.)