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Chinese tourist dies after being swept away by strong waves in Indonesia
Samira Vishwas | June 21, 2025 7:24 PM CST

By Hoang Vu  &nbspJune 21, 2025 | 02:00 am PT

Pink Beach at Komodo National Park in Indonesia. Photo courtesy of Komodo Tour Boat website

A Chinese tourist drowned after refusing to put on her life jacket at Indonesia’s famed Pink Beach in Komodo National Park.

The 30-year-old woman was part of a group of 10 tourists on June 18 visiting the national park, a chain of islands in East Nusa Tenggara Province known for its rugged landscapes and Komodo dragons, The Straits Times reported.

Although life jackets were provided, she initially refused to wear one, reportedly saying she only intended to take pictures and would put it on later.

According to a statement from West Manggarai police, she entered the sea without a life jacket despite being warned by her tour guide.

Moments later, strong waves swept her approximately 30 meters from the shore.

She was pulled from the water unconscious and given immediate first aid on the beach before being taken to a local medical center, but was later pronounced dead.

Police said the likely cause of death was drowning due to significant water intake into her lungs, according to Indonesian news site Compass.

The victim was on the second day of a three-day tour that had departed from Nusantara Port on June 17.

Local media reported rough sea conditions on the morning of the incident.

In response, authorities have urged tour operators and visitors to strictly follow safety protocols, especially during water activities in Komodo National Park.



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