An Indian tourist drowned off the coast of Nusa Penida Island, on Wednesday, 16 of October 2024, at 10.45am, after being swept off the cliff face by a large wave.
Reports say that Nilesh Mukhi (59), a travel agent from Kolkata, was posing for a photograph with his wife, Kavita, at Angel Billabong Beach when the accident took place.
The Emergency Search
The Nusa Penida Basarnas Alert Unit Post immediately began their emergency search procedure upon being informed.
The investigation was conducted by three parties and centred around the area where Mukhi fell, however no signs were found. Reports suggest that, due to the size of the waves at the time, search efforts were limited to areas that were accessible.
The search was then expanded to scour the shoreline by police, members of the Indonesian Navy and rescue workers. They were helped by Mukhil’s family and Lawlesh Kumar, Vice Consul of the Consulate General of India in Bali.
Body Found 20km Away
His body was found on Thursday, 17 of October 2024, at around 12.10pm in the water of Samuh, Nusa Dua, over 20 km away.
It was then carefully removed by speedboat to Tanjung Benoa Pier where it was transported to the morgue at Denpasar’s Ngurah General Hospital.
Safety Warnings for Tourists Visiting the Area
Safety suggestions have been provided to other tourists visiting Billabong Beach, including to be vigilant of large waves that frequently wash against the shores there.
It is also suggested to wear comfortable shoes, and to be especially careful when attempting photos near the edge of the high cliffs. Past cases include tourists slipping and falling.
It has also been advised to avoid Angel Billabong during the rainy season, as the rock face is especially slippery and difficult to walk across during that time.
Additionally, heavy rainfall can make the sea muddy and murky when mud is churned up from the surrounding beaches and shoreline.
