Local vendors informed lifeguards of the man’s disappearance at about 9am, saying that he simply never returned after going into the water.

Lifeguards hopped onto their jet-skis to search the sea. Patong Police officers, Kusoldharm Rescue Foundation workers and concerned tourists were also present at the scene.

Police found British sterling bank notes and a hotel keycard in his pocket. Officers are now trying to confirm his identity and figure out what exactly happened to him.