The body of a 37-year-old fisherman who went missing after falling into the backwaters at Muthalapozhi was recovered on Tuesday (August 11, 2026).

The deceased has been identified as Thomas, alias Praveen, a native of Anchuthengu.

The body was found by local fishermen near the auction hall at Thazhampalli in Muthalapozhi. The accident occurred around 5.30 p.m. on Monday while Thomas was travelling with a fishing group.

According to the police, the group’s boat had crossed the estuary and was entering the backwaters when Thomas suffered an epileptic seizure. He subsequently fell into the water and went missing.

A search operation was launched immediately, with local fishermen, the Coastal police and scuba-diving teams from the Fire and Rescue Services department participating in the effort. The search continued until night, but was temporarily suspended due to poor visibility.

The operation resumed around 6 a.m. on Tuesday, leading to the recovery of the body from near the auction hall. The body was later shifted to the Chirayinkeezhu Taluk Hospital.

Published - August 11, 2026 06:56 pm IST