British tourist missing in Bali after being dragged out to sea

An urgent search is underway in Bali for a 23-year-old British tourist who disappeared after being dragged out to sea by a strong current at Legian Beach, on the island's southwest coast. Harrison Edward Nada Kontounas, from East London, was swimming with two friends on Wednesday afternoon when a powerful rip current swept him away. Despite lifeguards warning the group to leave the water due to worsening winds, only his friends made it safely back to shore.

Red flags were also raised on the beach due to dangerous weather conditions. Rescue efforts began shortly after his disappearance, with boats and helicopters deployed as part of a coordinated search operation led by the Denpasar Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas Bali).

Local officials have said that winds reached over 18.6mph at the time of his disappearance.

Nyoman Sidakarya, Head of the Denpasar Search and Rescue Office, said: "We urge you to be careful when engaging in outdoor activities, including beach tourism."

They added: "We received a report at 18.40 WITA that a foreigner had drowned from Mr Ipel, Balawiata Kuta, and then five personnel were dispatched to the location.

"Our initial step is to coordinate with witnesses and other SAR elements. If he is not found tomorrow morning [today], we can determine our next action plan."

One eye-witness described the sea as rough and chaotic, with lifeguards searching for hours.

Abbey Maree said on social media: "It was a heartbreaking afternoon on the beach watching lifeguards searching for hours to find him. The water was so rough at the time.

"I was hoping they'd bring in a few more jet skis or boats to search, perhaps a helicopter, but sadly they just don't operate like we do back home. My heart bleeds for his friends and family and everyone else on the beach helping to find him."

One rescue unit was sent to Legian Beach while another was sent to the nearby Kelan Beach, with rubber boats launched to widen the search zone. However, high surf and turbulent waters have made the operation difficult, NeedToKnow reported.