KOLLAM: A man swept away in the waves white washing legs in the beach has been rescued. Saji George (53) of Kundara Cheruvalur Saji Bhavan was swept in the strong waves last evening. The accident happened at the place where the rope was tied to the west of the beach.

The lifeguards had advised the visitors not to go into the sea due to heavy currents and waves, but many did not pay heed to them. Saji George and his family first stood behind the rope and then went to wet his feet.

He was caught in the strong waves. Seeing the incident, the lifeguards left their clothes and phone on the shore and jumped into the sea for rescue operations. Saji George was rescued without going further inland, but due to strong currents and currents, he was brought ashore after about half an hour of effort. On learning about the incident, the East, Pallithottam police reached the spot and brought the situation under control.

Saji George was taken to the district hospital and given first aid. Lifeguards Anil, Anthony Johnson and local people carried out the rescue operations. Meanwhile, lifeguard Anil's mobile phone was stolen. The phone was turned on at 7 pm but was later switched off. He has lodged a complaint with the East Police and Cyber Cell.