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Rough Seas Hamper Bali Search for Missing British Tourist Harrison Kontounas

Officials say boats, jet skis and drones are deployed with no trace found.

Overview

  • Harrison Edward Nada Kontounas, 23, from east London, was swept out by a strong current while swimming with friends at Legian/Kuta on Wednesday afternoon.
  • Basarnas reported receiving the alert at 18:40 WITA and initially focused on shoreline searches as winds near 30 km/h and surf up to about 2.5 meters limited water operations.
  • Search teams have since used helicopters, boats, a rubber boat, jet skis and drones, with units working along Legian and toward Kelan Beach.
  • Friends allege lifeguards reacted too slowly and contend red flags were raised only afterward, claims not confirmed by officials who cite hazardous conditions for delays.
  • A friend said the group hired a private helicopter to assist, and the UK Foreign Office said it is supporting the family while local authorities continue the search.