Surat Thani –
A 36‑year‑old Russian tourist tragically lost his life after falling from a cliff near a popular viewpoint on Koh Samui.
The Koh Samui Police told the Phuket Express that they received an emergency call from foreign visitors who discovered a man lying unconscious on the rocky shoreline beneath the Khrua Phutsorn Pagoda viewpoint in the Mae Nam subdistrict. Officers, tourist police, immigration officials, medical staff, and rescue volunteers quickly arrived at the scene.
The victim was identified only as Mr. Iriar, 36, who had been staying at a local hotel. His belongings, including passports and room keys, were found nearby.
Witnesses reported seeing him attempting to climb down from the viewpoint toward the beach before losing his grip when a tree branch broke, causing him to fall approximately 20 meters onto the rocks below.
Investigators confirmed there were no signs of foul play. The body has been sent to Koh Samui Hospital for autopsy, and authorities have notified the Russian Embassy in Bangkok.
Police believe the tourist had visited the site to enjoy the view but miscalculated the climb. The incident highlights the risks of attempting to descend steep cliffs outside designated paths, especially in areas with sharp rocks and unstable terrain.
