Tragic Discovery in Trang’s Wilderness
The body of a 54-year-old woman, identified as Wanthanee, has been discovered in the northern sector of Ton Tae waterfall in tambon Palian, Trang province. Authorities believe she may have tragically slipped and fallen while navigating the challenging terrain near the popular waterfall.
A specialized search team is currently preparing for the arduous task of retrieving the body. Due to the difficult and remote nature of the area, this operation is anticipated to take approximately three to four hours.
Extensive Search Operation Under Difficult Conditions
The extensive search for Ms. Wanthanee involved over 100 individuals, including rangers, wildlife sanctuary officials, and experienced volunteers. The operation, which commenced amidst heavy rainfall and intermittent mobile signal issues on Thursday, demonstrated a significant collaborative effort to locate the missing trekker.
Ms. Wanthanee was part of a group of 13 tourists accompanied by a guide. The expedition, which began on May 30, was scheduled to conclude on June 1, a three-day, two-night journey exploring Khao Chet Yot. This renowned trekking route traverses the Banthat mountain range, spanning Phatthalung, Trang, Satun, and Songkhla provinces in southern Thailand.
Details of the Disappearance
The group had ascended from Phatthalung and intended to descend into Trang, with the Ton Tae waterfall situated along their planned route. As the group prepared for their descent towards Trang, Ms. Wanthanee reportedly expressed a desire to continue trekking alone after breakfast around 7 a.m. However, the guide, Sinruesak Choosi-on, denied this request.
According to the guide, Ms. Wanthanee was familiar with the Khao Chet Yot trail, having completed it four to five times previously. She informed the guide of her perceived knowledge of the path, and there were no reported conflicts within the group. Despite this, when the group was ready to depart at 9 a.m., Ms. Wanthanee was nowhere to be found.
Command Center Established, Search Continues
Following the discovery of her absence, the guide promptly contacted authorities to initiate a search. District Chief Pranet Uthairangsi established a command center at the Nan Sato waterfall, deploying six search teams that worked tirelessly day and night.
Ms. Wanthanee, an experienced hiker, was carrying a gas camp stove and ready-to-eat provisions in her pink backpack. These supplies offered searchers a degree of hope that she might be able to sustain herself while awaiting rescue.
