AL-LAITH — Three Saudi college students drowned while they were swimming off the coast of Al-Laith, 180 kilometers south of Jeddah. The victims, all girls, were picnicking with their family when they went for a swim in a no-swimming zone. The first victim ventured into the no-swimming zone and was swept away by a current. Two of the victim's sisters rushed to her aid but they too were swept away by the current. One of the sisters' husband and a young relative were fishing when they heard the girls' cries. Both jumped attempted to help but their efforts were in vain. The Coast Guard received a report of the drowning and rushed to the location. Divers rescued the husband and relative and the bodies of the three sisters were recovered later. All of the victims were in their 20s. The husband and relative were rushed to Al-Laith General Hospital and were listed in critical condition. An official from the Coast Guard said that despite numerous “Dangerous area. No swimming,” signs that are posted on the coast, people continue to swim in areas that are off limits. He warned families picnicking near danger zones to respect the warning signs and watch their kids at all times. “Tragedy can strike any time,” he said. — SG
