Russian swimmer killed in Pattaya

Police said two scuba diving tourists were hit by the propellers of a twoengined speedboat near Koh Larn, about 300 metres off Pattaya's coast in Bang Lamung district, at 2pm.

 One victim, later identified as 40yearold Poliakov Oleg, was cut in half and a companion, whose name has not been  released, is missing.

Police said Oleg was visiting Koh Larn along with four family members and friends. He had been swimming in the scuba diving zone but resurfaced as the speedboat passed by and was struck by the propellers.

 Police arrested boat driver Ritthirong Phanla, 47, who said he was transporting ten tourists from Koh Larn to Pattaya Beach's Hard Rock Cafe plaza when the Russians swimmers suddenly resurfaced and he wasn't able to stop.

Police initially charged Ritthirong with reckless driving, checked if he had a legal licence and submitted him to tests for drug abuse and alcohol level, said Provincial Police Region 2 deputy chief Pol Maj Gen Suwira Songmetta.