Inquiry after Irish man dies in Thailand

The death of a young Irish man in Thailand is not thought to be suspicious, sources said last night.

The death of a young Irish man in Thailand is not thought to be suspicious, sources said last night.

It emerged yesterday morning that the young man in his 20s had died on tropical island of Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand.

It is thought that the man was from Co Meath but a Department of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman said she could not release any information in the interests of his family's privacy.

Thai police are investigating the man's death. The spokeswoman said Thai police automatically started an investigation whenever a foreign death occurred in its jurisdiction.

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It did not necessarily mean that the death was suspicious.

The spokeswoman said the man's family had been contacted and were being offered all necessary help and support.

"We are providing assistance from our embassy in Kuala Lumpur and from our consular section in Dublin," she said.

Thailand is a popular destination for young Irish backpackers, as well as honeymooners.

Koh Phangan, a coconut-producing island south of Bangkok is popular with European and American travellers and is known for its relaxed party atmosphere and sandy beaches.

Its full-moon parties, held on the beach on the night of every full moon, draw thousands of visitors every month.

Alison Healy

Alison Healy

Alison Healy is a contributor to The Irish Times