The community of Bakau is in mourning following the tragic drowning of Kebba Wada, proprietor of the Al-Furqan Institute, and four of his children at Cape Point Beach on Sunday.

Mr Wada, a well-known Islamic educator, died alongside his children, Khadijah, Muhammed, Mariam and Sumayah, during what was meant to be a family picnic.

According to information gathered, the family had gone to the beach when several of the children encountered difficulties while swimming in the sea. In an attempt to rescue them, Mr Wada entered the water.

Two of his sons were successfully rescued during the incident.

However, Mr Wada and four of his other children tragically drowned. One of the rescued children is reported to be in a coma and is receiving medical treatment.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the Bakau community, where Mr Wada was widely known for his role as the owner of the Al-Furqan Institute, an Islamic school that provides both conventional and Quranic education.

Residents described him as a dedicated educator and community figure, and many are struggling to come to terms with the scale of the loss.

The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief, with tributes pouring in for the late Mr Wada and his children.

Authorities have not yet released further details, but the incident has once again raised concerns about safety at popular beaches.

By Adama Makasuba