Kochi: A youth drowned to death while bathing along with his friends in the sea at Puthuvype Beach on Sunday morning. The victim was identified as Abhishek (23), a native of Kathrikadavu, Kaloor here. Two of his friends, who were also caught in the high tides along with him, were rescued. However, their condition is stated to be critical. 

The incident occured when a seven-member group, including Abhishek and his friends Milan and Alwin, went to the beach to swim in the sea. Three of them, including Abhishek, got swept away by the strong waves. The rescue operations were carried out by the swimming club members of Puthuvype and the local residents.

Information on the other members of the group is yet to be received.