A tragic incident occurred at Natadola Beach, Coral Coast, where a mother of four lost her son, Rihan Ali, who drowned on Sunday. Rihan, a 15-year-old Year 11 student at Nadi Muslim College, was enjoying a family picnic when the accident happened around midday.
His mother, Imrana Ali, expressed her grief, stating, “My world is shattered into pieces because my son whom I loved dearly has left me and gone too soon.” Rihan’s father, Imran Ali, described his son as a well-behaved and bright student who actively participated in religious activities at the Mulomulo mosque. He shared that Rihan rarely missed school and was always eager to attend classes and meet his friends.
“He was always respectful towards his elders and received awards for exemplifying the best of his religious values at school,” Mr. Ali said. Mrs. Ali shared her heartache, explaining that she now had to adjust to preparing two school lunches instead of three. She recalled that Rihan was enthusiastic about the picnic they had planned for Sunday morning, and although she expressed concerns about the weather, she ultimately agreed to go since school was starting soon.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that Rihan was with his family during the picnic when the unfortunate event occurred. Rihan’s funeral took place yesterday at the Mulomulo Muslim Cemetery.