A seven-year-old boy is in a critical condition after being swept away by a current at West Mersea Beach in Essex, an incident that resulted in the deaths of a Bangladeshi politician's wife and their 15-year-old daughter. The boy, identified as Musa Ahmed, was airlifted to a hospital on July 22 after getting into difficulty in the water during a family outing.
His 15-year-old cousin, Sameeha Rahman, and her mother, Shelina Rahman, 41, died after entering the water in an attempt to save Musa. Several other family members were also taken to the hospital and are recovering, according to Essex Police. Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher stated that the family was enjoying a day at the beach when the tragedy occurred and that inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances.
Police were alerted by the ambulance service around 5:35 p.m. on July 22 to reports of several individuals in distress in the water near Seaview Avenue. The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed that one patient was transported by air and three by road to the hospital. Shelina Rahman was the wife of Dr. Mansur Rahman, the leader of Jubo Dal UK, the youth wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Sameeha Rahman was their daughter.
Musa's father, Shahin Ahmed, has called for a review of safety measures at the beach, including the addition of life-saving equipment and clearer warning signs, to prevent future tragedies. Labour MP Naz Shah, speaking about the incident, expressed deep sorrow and emphasized the importance of following water safety advice.
The area is known for its strong currents, which can pose a risk to swimmers and tourists, particularly during high tides. Emergency services, including multiple ambulances, police vehicles, a fire engine, a lifeboat, air ambulances, and a coastguard helicopter, responded to the scene. Community members have been praised for their courage and selflessness in attempting to help the family.