TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Local authorities continued their search on Monday (May 29) for a female middle school student who went missing after being swept into the ocean a day earlier. The incident occurred at Neipi Beach near Nanfang'ao in Yilan County.
The student, identified as Liu, reportedly met up with a 25-year-old man after conversing on a dating app for five days. The pair were walking along the beach in the morning when the forceful waves suddenly engulfed them. While the man managed to be washed ashore, the girl's whereabouts remain unknown.
Concerned locals have emphasized the inherent dangers of being too close to the shore, especially at Neipi Beach, known for its unpredictable and sizable rogue waves. The Central Weather Bureau reported that the waves were over two meters high at the time of the incident.
Investigations are underway regarding the alleged forcible abduction, as the girl is a minor under sixteen. Authorities are looking into the man's involvement and role in the tragic event.
Tragically, rough waters along Taiwan's east coast claimed another victim as two boys were swept into the sea in Hualien. One boy was rescued, but another, identified as Lee, lost his life.
The incident occurred while the three elementary school boys played near the shore. Chou was swept away by the powerful current, prompting Lee to jump into the water to save him. The third boy quickly sought help.
The coast guard promptly responded, locating Chou in a non-life-threatening condition. However, despite efforts, Lee was found later in the afternoon with no vital signs. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
As Typhoon Mawar draws closer to Taiwan's eastern shore, local authorities warn the public, urging them to refrain from visiting beaches due to the anticipated strong winds and hazardous waves.
The search for the missing middle school student and the unfortunate incidents along the coastline serve as sad reminders of the potential dangers posed by the powerful forces of nature.
