He has been described as a “bright, kind, and loving young man” who will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
A British tourist, who disappeared from a beach in Bali, has tragically been found dead. Harrison Edward Nada-Kantounas, 23, from East London, vanished while swimming with mates at Leigan Beach, Kuta, on 17 September. He was swept away by a powerful rip current and disappeared beneath the waves.
His body was discovered today, with officials reporting he had sustained injuries to his head, including a broken nose. His family released a statement saying: “It is with deepest sorrow that we confirm that the body of our beloved son, Harrison Nada-Kantounas, 23, was recovered today, approximately two miles offshore from the beach in Bali where he was last seen.
“Harrison had suffered injuries, including a head wound and a broken nose. We are heartbroken beyond words. Harrison was a bright, kind, and loving young man whose absence leaves an unimaginable void in the lives of his family and friends.”
His mum thanked those who had supported the family during this challenging time, adding: “The kindness and generosity shown, from strangers on the beaches of Bali to people across the world who donated, has carried us through.
“Harrison was loved deeply, and we have felt that love reflected to us in the solidarity of so many. A very special thanks must go to Harrison’s friends, who searched tirelessly through the night, never resting, never giving up, and never wanting to stop.”
Tributes have been pouring in for the much-adored man, whose humour and warmth were celebrated by his friends. However, one of Harrison’s close mates, who was present at the beach during the incident, criticised the lifeguards and emergency services for their delayed response.
Speaking to The Sun, he said: “The last 24 hours have been the most devastating of our lives. We were four 23 year old lads from England on holiday. Three of us went into the sea, one stayed on shore. Only two made it back – not Harrison.”
He accused the lifeguards of being slow to react and alleged that one of them was engrossed in his phone when the incident occurred. He added: “By the time they responded, it was already too late.”
He also claimed that red flags were only put up after the incident, contradicting local reports stating they had been there beforehand. The friend further alleged that the team arrived two hours late the following morning and brought “one rubber boat and a jet ski.”
Nyoman Sidakarya, the Head of the Denpasar Search and Rescue Office, stated: “We urge you to be careful when engaging in outdoor activities, including beach tourism. We received a report at 18.40, that a foreigner had drowned from Mr Ipel, Balawiata Kuta, then five personnel were dispatched to the location.
“Our initial step is to coordinate with witnesses and other SAR elements. If he is not found tomorrow morning (today), we can determine our next action plan.”
A GoFundMe campaign in Harrison’s name has already raised more than £27,000.
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