Scuba divers escape fiery boat; tourist missing in Thailand

A fire broke out on a tourist diving boat near Koh Tao, Thailand, leading to a rescue operation for stranded divers. The incident occurred on Sunday morning when a blaze erupted from the engine room of the wooden vessel, named Davy Jones Locker. Sixteen tourists were onboard during the scuba diving trip. Among those missing is Alexandra Clarke, a 26-year-old backpacker from Lambeth. Reports say she was in the toilet when the fire started. While other passengers managed to escape and were rescued by nearby boats, Clarke has not yet been found. The fire caused significant damage and even resulted in an explosion, putting divers at risk as they swam for safety. Witnesses described chaos as scuba divers jumped into the water to avoid the flames. Two men, the boat's captain and a crew member, have been arrested on charges of negligence. Officials believe the fire was caused by an explosion of compressed air tanks being filled near the engine. Recovery efforts are complicated by bad weather, with strong winds and currents hampering the search. Local authorities are continuing the investigation into the cause of the fire. They are also working with specialized divers from the Thai navy to find Clarke. The British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is supporting her family and is in touch with local officials.