Sukabumi, W. Java. A jet ski carrying two riders capsized after being struck by large waves at Bupalo Beach in Palabuhanratu, Sukabumi Regency, on Monday afternoon, killing a Saudi Arabian national and leaving another rider in critical condition, authorities said.

The accident occurred on Monday in the coastal tourist area of Bupalo Beach, located in Palabuhanratu subdistrict. According to information gathered at the scene, the two victims were riding a jet ski together toward open waters before the incident occurred as they attempted to return to shore.

Witnesses said the jet ski was forced through high waves despite rough sea conditions. A large wave then struck the watercraft, causing it to overturn violently.

“The impact was very strong. The male victim’s head hit the body of the jet ski before he was thrown into the water,” said Musyafa Kausar, 24, a witness who was at the beach at the time of the accident.

Musyafa added that although both riders were wearing life jackets, they were later seen floating motionless in the water.

“They were already floating and unconscious. At that time, there was no immediate rescue from the operator,” he said.

Both victims were eventually evacuated from the sea and rushed to Palabuhanratu Regional General Hospital (RSUD Palabuhanratu) for emergency treatment. However, one of the riders was pronounced dead upon arrival, while the other remains in critical condition and is receiving intensive care.

Police identified the deceased as Al Muhanna Hasan Radhi, a male foreign national from Saudi Arabia. The surviving victim was identified as Siti Maryam, 41, an Indonesian woman from Sukamaju neighborhood in Tugu Selatan village, Cisarua district, Bogor Regency.

The case is currently being investigated by the Water and Air Police Unit of the Sukabumi Police, which is handling the maritime accident. 

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