Sri Lanka, Feb. 26 -- An Australian national drowned while swimming off the coast of Pelena in Weligama yesterday (25), police stated.

The incident occurred when the tourist along with his wife was taking a swim. Authorities said he was later reported missing in the water, prompting an emergency response.

Following a tip-off, officers from the Weligama Police launched an investigation into the incident.

Preliminary findings indicate that the elderly tourist drowned while sea bathing.

The deceased was a 76-year-old Australian national.

Further inquiries are being conducted by the Weligama Police.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Ada Derana....