The boy, named by police as ‘Xiao Zirui’, had travelled to Phi Phi Island in Krabi with his father on a tour organised by TSK Marine. After lunch at a bungalow on Ton Sai Bay, the pair went to nearby Arida Beach at about 1:55pm.
Police said the boy’s father sat on the beach while allowing his son to swim, even though he could not swim and was not wearing a life jacket. He entered the water with only a snorkel mask and breathing tube.
At around 2pm, the father realised his son was no longer visible and searched the beach and water. Minutes later, at about 2:05pm, he found his son unconscious in the sea.
The boy was rushed to Koh Phi Phi Hospital, where doctors attempted resuscitation. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at 3:18pm.
His body was later transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for forensic examination. Police confirmed they are liaising with the Chinese Embassy to assist the family.
Authorities have urged tour operators and parents to ensure children wear life jackets and are supervised at all times while swimming, particularly in areas where there are no lifeguards.