Fisherman collapses and dies at sea; swam to death trying to retrieve mobile phone

VIZHINJAM: Fisherman drowned at fishing port. S Shaju (39), son of Sabariappan and Forgia Lillikutty, drowned. The accident happened around 10 am yesterday. After going fishing on Wednesday evening with Lawrence, Jose and Shibu, Shaju reached the Vizhinjam harbour at 4.30 am on Thursday and brought the boat closer to the shore. Then Shaju reached his house in Pulluvila.

Shaju came to Vizhinjam with his friend Pathros to pick up the mobile phone that was left in the boat and repair his net. Relatives said that after asking Patros to stay ashore, Shaju swam towards the boat and drowned midway. When Shaju went missing, Patros took a small boat and searched but did not find him. Vizhinjam Coastal Police and Marine Enforcement were informed afterwards.

A search conducted by Vizhinjam Councilor Nizamuddin, mussel workers and divers led to the recovery of Shaju's body covered in mud around 4 pm. Shaju is single. Siblings: Sonia, Mariam, Dency, Alphonsia and Marykutty. Funeral will be performed today at St. Jacobs Forane Church, Pulluvila.