A 34-year-old male from Ha'apai drowned on an area of coast in 'Utulau called Houmautulau, this morning, 29 January.

Deputy Police Commisioner 'Atunaisa Taumoepeau told Matangi Tonga the deceased went with some friends sightseeing on the 'Utulau coast, in western Tongatapu.

The deceased went into the water for a swim, and was joined by some of his friends, when they noticed he was struggling to swim. They attempted to rescue him, and called for help.

However, when they pulled his body out of the water, he had already died.

Taumoepeau said the Houmautulau coast is generally unsafe for swimming because of its depth and rocky features.

Investigation into this incident is ongoing.