A mother of four is heartbroken following the tragic drowning of her son at Natadola Beach on the Coral Coast. The deceased, 15-year-old Rihan Ali, was a Year 11 student at Nadi Muslim College.
“My world is shattered into pieces because my son whom I loved dearly has left me and gone too soon,” expressed his mother, Imrana Ali, on Monday.
The drowning occurred around midday while the family was enjoying a picnic at the beach. Rihan’s father, Imran Ali, praised his son as well-behaved and bright, describing him as a dedicated student who was involved in religious activities at the Mulomulo mosque.
“Rihan rarely missed school and always anticipated his classes and seeing his friends,” Mr. Ali shared. “He was respectful to his elders and received awards for exemplifying strong religious values at school.”
Mrs. Ali reflected on the change this loss brings to her family, noting she will now only prepare two school lunches instead of three. She recounted how Rihan had insisted on going for the picnic that day, despite concerns about the weather.
“Since he is my second youngest, I have a soft spot for him; I just had to agree to go for the picnic as school was also about to start on Tuesday,” she said.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that Rihan was with his family for a picnic when the tragic incident occurred. His funeral took place yesterday at the Mulomulo Muslim Cemetery.