— says  injuries raise doubts over jet ski accident claim

As investigations continue into the death of 16-year-old Aarif Azeez, his family is raising serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding his passing, pointing to injuries they believe are inconsistent with a jet ski accident.

Aarif, of Lot 28 Adventure Village and a student of Al Madina Academy, was reported missing on Easter Monday following an incident at Hot and Cold Lake, Sand Pit/Red Village, Region Two. His body was later discovered, leaving relatives searching for answers.

Family members say the injuries observed, including a broken foot and apparent head trauma, have deepened their suspicions. His sister, Malika Azeez, said his face appeared bloodied and questioned whether a fall from a jet ski could have resulted in such extensive injuries. She has raised the possibility of foul play.

According to relatives, Aarif left home earlier that day with a cousin and several acquaintances, whom they noted were not part of his close circle. He was expected to return by mid-afternoon but failed to do so, prompting concern.

After checking his location and noting he was in the Onderneeming area, Malika alerted their mother, Woletta Hopkinson, that something was wrong. The family was later informed that Aarif had reportedly fallen off a jet ski while attempting a manoeuvre.

His grandmother, Shafeeza Zameena, described him as a quiet and reserved teenager, noting that repeated attempts to contact him went unanswered.

Police reported that the incident occurred around 16:30h. Aarif had been at the lake with four individuals for a recreational outing involving two jet skis. He was reportedly operating one of the vessels when it began running low on fuel.

Investigators say that after advising a companion to continue ahead, Aarif attempted to manage the situation before being seen riding in a zigzag pattern and subsequently falling into the water approximately 50 feet from shore.

Despite immediate efforts by a companion to locate him, he was not found at the time.

Police have since launched an investigation as the family continues to call for a thorough probe into the events leading up to his death.