Tengrinews.kz - A German tourist fell victim to a shark attack at a popular beach in Thailand. Elke Maier, 57, was attacked near the shore of a hotel in Phang Nga, shocking other beachgoers, according to the Daily Mail.
The incident occurred during an early morning swim at Khao Lak beach. Maier was attacked by a 1.5-meter bull shark.
With a serious leg wound and heavy bleeding, she managed to reach the shore with the help of fellow tourists. Elke was rushed to a local hospital and later transferred to Phuket, where she underwent emergency surgery.
She is currently recovering and preparing for a second operation. Police and environmental officials confirmed it was a bull shark attack and assured that measures will be taken to prevent future incidents.
Maier sustained a deep wound with tooth marks spanning 15 cm wide and 30 cm long, damaging both skin and muscle tissue.
"Her condition has significantly improved, and if her recovery continues, she will undergo another surgery tonight. The tourist has medical insurance, and we have provided her with the necessary documentation. The German embassy is also offering support," commented Police Lieutenant Colonel Ekkachai Siri.
Local tourism representatives are working to preserve the region's reputation. Following the attack, patrols have been established on the affected beach.
Lertsak Ponklin, President of the Tourism Business Association of Phang Nga province, stated that local hotels, water activity operators, and surf schools have been issued warnings.
Phang Nga province is located along Thailand's western coast, bordered by the Andaman Sea, which is part of the Bay of Bengal. The area is home to various shark species, including reef, tiger, bull, gray reef, and hammerhead sharks, all of which can pose potential risks to humans.
Earlier, in the Maldives, a diver unexpectedly became the unwitting hero of the film "Jaws." When he dived into the water, a large shark suddenly appeared, almost biting off his head. The attack was caught on video.
