Bhatkal: A distressing incident occurred as a tourist, identified as Mani Tej (22), went missing after drowning in the Murdeshwar beach in Taluk. Simultaneously, another youth, identified as Yashu (22), miraculously managed to reach the shore. Yashu received initial medical assistance at a private hospital in Murdeshwar before being transferred to Manipal for further treatment.

Police sources detailed that the unfortunate episode transpired around 7 pm on Sunday. The lifeguard personnel concluded their duty and departed for their residences by 6:30 pm. It has been highlighted that a contingent of 22 individuals hailing from Kolar arrived in Murdeshwar on Sunday for a recreational outing. Notably, swimming in the Murdeshwar sea has been prohibited since June. However, the irresistible allure of the splendid sea waves tends to overpower visitors, prompting them to indulge in playing with the waves. The local police diligently strive to dissuade such ventures into the sea. Reportedly, two members of the Kolar group managed to evade the police's watchful gaze and ventured a distance into the sea to swim. Tragically, one individual met with drowning, while the other emerged fortunate enough to escape.

Police sources said that the condition of the youth admitted in Manipal Hospital is now out of danger.

Murdeshwar Circle Police Inspector, Mahabaleshwar Nayak, confirmed that intensive search efforts for the missing youth are underway within the sea. 

A case has been registered at Murdeshwar police station.