Search Continues for Missing British Tourist Harrison Edward Nada Kontounas off Bali Coast
Authorities and loved ones are urgently searching for Harrison Edward Nada Kontounas, a 23-year-old British holidaymaker from Ilford, east London, who went missing while swimming at Legian Beach, Bali. The incident occurred on Wednesday when strong ocean currents are believed to have pulled him under the water.
According to the Denpasar Search and Rescue team, Harrison was swimming with two friends at the popular beach location when he disappeared from sight around 18:40 local time (11:40 BST). Despite extensive search efforts using boats, jet skis, and drones along the coastline, there have been no confirmed sightings of him so far.
The search operation has faced challenges due to high waves reaching up to 2.5 meters (8 feet) and strong winds reportedly gusting up to 39 km/h (24 mph), conditions that complicate rescue efforts. The authorities have stated that if the search does not yield results, they will determine the next steps accordingly.
Harrison’s friend, Freddie Palmer, who was present at the time of the disappearance, expressed distress and frustration over the response time, claiming local lifeguards took three hours to arrive. He also revealed that Harrison’s friends personally funded a helicopter search costing approximately £1,700, although it did not find any trace of him. "We are traumatised and feel the authorities could have acted faster. Maybe Harrison would be with us now," Palmer said.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has confirmed it is supporting Harrison’s family and liaising with Indonesian local authorities during this critical time.
As search efforts persist, officials are urging beachgoers to exercise caution due to hazardous sea conditions. Harrison’s family, friends, and the international community continue to hope for his safe return.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local authorities to assist in the ongoing search.
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