Tanzanian naval trainee missing after jumping into Kochi backwaters

Kochi: A 22-year-old Tanzanian naval trainee, Abdul Ibrahim Salih, has gone missing after allegedly jumping into the Kochi backwaters on Sunday evening while spending time with fellow cadets.

Salih had arrived in Kochi earlier that day following the completion of his naval training at the Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala. He had proudly participated in the passing-out parade on Saturday, marking the successful culmination of his training. Along with other Indian and international cadets, he travelled to Kochi for a brief respite before his scheduled return home.

According to police sources, the incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. near the Venduruthy Bridge, where Salih and a group of fellow trainees had gathered. He reportedly jumped into the waters below, repeating a previous attempt in which he had safely swum back.

However, during the second jump, Salih failed to resurface, sparking immediate concern among his companions and bystanders.

The Kochi City Police, assisted by the Southern Naval Command and other rescue agencies, swiftly launched a search operation. Despite their efforts, strong undercurrents and poor visibility have posed significant challenges to the mission.

Rescue efforts by the Navy and police continue into the night, though as of Sunday evening, the Southern Naval Command has yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

Sources confirm that naval divers and rescue boats are actively engaged in the search operation. The event has sent shockwaves through both naval and diplomatic circles.

Salih, a foreign military trainee, was undergoing naval training in India as part of bilateral defence cooperation programmes with African nations.

Authorities are coordinating with the Tanzanian Embassy in New Delhi and working to notify his family. Further details are expected once an official statement is released by the Navy or the Ministry of Defence.

(inputs from IANS)