Drowning tragedy strikes Albersville family

The Shaik family of Albersville is devastated after the tragic death of their son and brother, Hafez Mohammed Sohail Shaik who drowned at Kenton-on-Sea in the Cape province at the weekend.

At the time, Sohail who turned 22 last week, was in the company of friends from Rhodes University in Grahamstown, where he was a fourth year pharmacy student.

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Tragically, a friend of his from Durban also died in the same incident.

According to his older brother, Hafez Mohammed Saaber Shaik, a group of friends had decided to play soccer on the beach last Saturday (September 12) before going for a swim.

Sohail and five others got caught in a rip current. Three managed to get out of the current, however Sohail and two of his friends were pulled in.

“Another friend went to their rescue, and together the four of them managed to swim to a rock where they waited to be rescued. As they helped another friend to safety on the rock, a large wave washed over them,” said Saaber.

This is when Sohail and his friend from Durban disappeared from sight.

Rescuers including NSRI Port Alfred duty crew and support services arrived but despite extensive CPR efforts paramedics declared both men deceased.

“My brother was selfless, he thought about others before himself,” said Saaber.

Not one to complain, Sohail also offered advice and encouragement to those around him.

At Rhodes University he was part of the Muslim Students Association, where he held the posts of treasurer and president.

He also worked with the Gift of the Givers Foundation and was active in assisting those in need.

An excellent student, he had made the Dean’s List and was also a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, which recognises academic achievements of university students.

Sohail matriculated from Port Shepstone Islamic School in 2016, where he was head boy. He was also Dux of the school and the Sport Award recipient.

While at school, he memorised the Quran, along with Saaber.

He was an excellent soccer player and also participated in strongman competitions.

Sohail’s funeral was held last Sunday, September 13.

He is survived by his father, Goolam, mother, Nashreen, brother, Saaber and sisters, Saabira and Zahrah.

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