Riga (Latvia): The Embassy of India in Sweden and Latvia on Saturday announced that it is working closely with the Latvian authorities following the suspected drowning of an Indian student in Riga. The embassy has assured the student’s family of all possible assistance.

The incident took place on the evening of July 18 when Albin Shinto, a student from Kerala, was swimming with four friends in the Jugla Canal in Riga. Eyewitness Arhik Haries reported that Albin got into trouble and started to sink while swimming. Two of his friends tried to save him but also got into trouble. A passing fisherman managed to rescue the two friends with his boat but Albin disappeared under the waves.

Rescue teams, including a diver, were quickly on the scene and searched for “two to three hours,” Haries said. However, they were unable to find Albin and had to abandon the search when night fell. Latvia-based news portal LSM reported that the search will not resume until Monday due to limited resources for large-scale and long-term operations.

In a message on X, the Indian Embassy stated: “The Embassy is in regular contact with the Latvian authorities regarding the unfortunate incident of suspected drowning of an Indian student in Riga. We remain in touch with the family and will continue to provide all possible assistance.” The Embassy also said that it is committed to supporting the student’s family during this difficult time.