Two students who were swept out to sea from Paravur Beach in Kollam have been found dead, ending a frantic search that lasted into Sunday morning.
The deceased are Bibin Raj (16) and Kannan Raj (16), both in their Plus One year of schooling. Their bodies were recovered after noon today and transported to Parippally Medical College for examinations, according to officials at Paravur Police Station.
The tragedy unfolded on Saturday afternoon when a group of five boys went swimming near the shore behind Pozhikkara Devi Temple. Of the five, three ventured into the water and were pulled away by strong rip currents.
One boy, Abu Tahir, was rescued unharmed thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Fire and Rescue Services and the police. Bibin Raj and Kannan, however, could not be located immediately, leading authorities to request assistance from the Coast Guard. Despite continuous searches late into the night, their bodies remained missing.
Police anticipate post-mortem examinations on Monday, after which the remains will be released to the families.
The estuary area behind the Pozhikkara Devi Temple is widely regarded as extremely dangerous, and locals typically avoid entering the waters there. Officials noted that the three boys who entered the sea were holding hands when they were swept away. The survivor was trapped in the sand near the estuary, which allowed rescuers to reach him promptly.
Kannan attended VVVHSS Ayathil, while Bibin Raj studied at TKM School Karikode.
