Kochi: A 22-year-old Tanzanian naval trainee went missing on Sunday after reportedly jumping into the Kochi backwaters while spending time with friends.

The youngster, identified as Abdul Ibrahim Salih, arrived in Kochi earlier in the day after completing his training at the Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala. The passing out parade was held on Saturday.

Salih went missing around 5.30 pm after jumping from the Venduruthy Bridge. Police sources said he was on the bridge along with a few other trainees. Salih had jumped off the bridge once and swam back successfully. He went missing after jumping off the bridge again. 

The Navy has launched a search operation in coordination with other agencies, but strong undercurrents have made it difficult. 

"An incident involving the accidental fall of an international naval trainee into the Ernakulam Channel was reported at 1730 hours on 01 June 2025. The trainee, who had recently completed training at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, was on leave in Kochi en route to his home country. Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident occurred while the trainee was off duty. A comprehensive Search and Rescue (SAR) operation has been launched in the area by the Indian Navy in coordination with other agencies. Further details will be shared as the situation develops," the academy said in a statement.