Bangladeshi missing from Kuakata found clinging to banana plant near Chennai

The tourist who went missing a week ago from Patuakhali's Kuakata beach has been found in Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu state of India.

Seven days after his disappearance, Firoz Sikder called his family from Chennai at noon today (June 4, 2022). His elder brother Masud Sikder confirmed the matter to our Patuakhali correspondent.

Firoz went missing while swimming with his friends at Kuakata beach on May 27 noon. He was swept away in the deep sea by the current, Masud further said.

While out in the open sea for 24 hours, hanging onto his life by clinging to a banana plant, Firoz was rescued by Indian fishermen who took him to Chennai, Masud said quoting Firoz.

He is currently in custody of the local administration there, Masud said.

Their other elder brother Moazzem Hossain Sikder said, "We are happy to hear from him and thank almighty Allah for keeping him safe."

ARM Shawkat Anwar Islam, officer-in-charge of Galachipa Police Station, also confirmed the matter.

"I also learned that Firoz was being treated at a hospital in Chennai. We informed the matter to higher authorities," the OC said.

Abdul Khaleq, assistant superintendent of Kuakata Tourist Police Zone, said Masud had informed him about the matter over phone.