This is the heroic moment a quick-thinking military police officer rescued a drowning youngster from the sea in Brazil.

Emergency responders from the 12th Battalion were patrolling on motorcycles when they spotted the child being pulled out by a strong current in Barra Norte, Balneario Camboriu.

Private Conte immediately jumped into the water, battling the waves to reach the struggling 11-year-old boy, who appeared weak and had reportedly swallowed seawater.

Privates Reuter and Richard supported the rescue by providing life-saving gear to aid the operation.

Footage shows the soldier guiding the boy back to the breakwater rocks on Sunday afternoon, November 9.

Private Richard, a trained nurse, performed first aid on the child, who was later confirmed to be in stable condition.

Witnesses said the current was powerful, and the depth of around 10ft made the rescue especially dangerous for both the officer and the child.