Incident Overview

In a heart-wrenching incident in Phuket, a Singaporean tourist, identified as 52-year-old Mr. Lee Mun Tuk, has tragically died shortly after receiving a massage at a popular shop on Patong Beach. The unfortunate event took place on December 7, as reported by local authorities.

Details of the Massage

Mr. Lee had opted for a 45-minute 'oil body massage.' Following the session, he collapsed and was unable to breathe. Staff from the massage establishment immediately contacted the police and emergency medical services after attempts to revive him with CPR proved unsuccessful.

Response from Authorities

Patong police chief Chalermchai Hernsawad confirmed that Mr. Lee's wife reported he had experienced breathing difficulties during the incident. Importantly, his wife indicated that he had pre-existing health conditions and did not suspect any foul play.

Family's Decision

Following this tragedy, Mr. Lee's wife decided against an autopsy, opting instead to return his body to Singapore for religious rites, reflecting their cultural practices and beliefs.

Another Tragic Case

This unsettling event coincided with another shocking case where a Thai singer, Chayada Prao-hom, died after experiencing complications from multiple massage sessions. Chayada had undergone three massages within a month, with two sessions involving neck manipulation. After experiencing severe pain and numbness, she was ultimately diagnosed with a blood infection and brain swelling, leading to her untimely death at a Udon Thani hospital.

Concerns Over Massage Safety

The contrasting fates of Mr. Lee and Ms. Chayada have raised alarm regarding the safety and accreditation of massage parlors in Thailand. Authorities are reportedly scrutinizing the licensing of establishments, aiming to ensure they meet necessary health and safety standards.

Importance of Caution

While massages are generally deemed safe, as indicated by the United States National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, these incidents serve as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with such treatments. Rare but serious complications, including nerve injuries and blood clots, highlight the importance of seeking services from qualified and accredited therapists.

Conclusion

As the investigation continues, questions remain about how often such tragedies might occur in tourist destinations and what safeguards can be implemented to protect unsuspecting vacationers. It's a sobering reminder for tourists to be vigilant when indulging in relaxation treatments during their travels.