FIVE men from Sri Lanka drowned at a popular British holiday resort on the hottest day of the year.
The men – two of whom were brothers – died at Camber Sands beach in Sussex after travelling from London on August 24th.
They were named as Nitharsan Ravi, Kuru Anna, Inthushan Sri and brothers Kobi and Ken Nathan and are from the Tamil community in Greenwich, south London.
Ravi’s brother Ajirthan said: “It has been a very hard time for us and especially for the parents of the other four victims, because they treat us the same way as their kids - that’s how it works between us.”
Their friends posted tributes on social media with Jackson Bosco sharing a message to Nitharsan on Facebook.
He said: “Can’t believe to hear the news you were one of the boys at #CamberSands.
“You were truly a good person with a good heart. You are going to be missed on this earth. Condolences and prayers to the family at this time.”
Charles Bosco said he was “feeling sad” and added: “RIP Nitharsan Ravi. Still can’t believe you’re gone.
“Anyone going to the beach. Please look after yourselves.”
The bodies of three of the victims, in their 20s, were pulled ashore while two were found later.
Chief Superintendent Di Roskilly said: “We believe we now know who the men are and that they came to the beach together for the day.
“We believe they are all in their late teens and early 20s and come from the Greater London area.
“These men were not fully clothed when they were pulled from the sea but wearing clothes appropriate for being at the beach for the day.”
An online petition calling for lifeguards at Camber Sands has been signed by more than 4,000 people, and local resident Emily Van Eyssen, 44, said the need for lifeguards was long overdue.
