The father of seven-year-old Adriel Mohamed says he is struggling to come to terms with the loss of his son, describing the child as the centre of his life and a boy he cared for closely every day.
Altab Mohamed spoke with the media in the aftermath of the tragedy, saying he was away at work when the incident occurred and is now left devastated by the child’s death.
“My son means everything to me. That’s all,” the grieving father said.
The older Mohamed said he is separated from the child’s mother and had been doing his best to provide for and look after his son.
“I work and take care of him,” he said, while explaining that he had left to earn a living and return home.
The father also recalled the close bond he shared with the child, saying he remained actively involved in his daily life, including school and grooming.
“I send him to school. I cut his hair,” Mohamed said.
He added that Adriel was with him most of the time and that he always tried to make sure the boy was cared for.
Overcome with grief, Mohamed repeatedly said he did not know what more to say as he mourned the loss of his son.
Initial investigations revealed that the child lived at the home with relatives. At around 5:05 a.m., a relative went to the house and discovered the elderly woman injured and the child lying motionless inside.
The pensioner was taken to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where she was admitted. Her condition has been listed as stable. Police ranks visited and processed the scene, where the child’s body was examined and injuries were observed.
Investigators also recovered a knife at the house which is suspected to have been used in the attack. The weapon has since been lodged.
The child was taken to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where a doctor on duty pronounced him dead on arrival. His body was later transferred to Ezekiel Funeral Home, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Police said several persons have already been questioned as part of the investigation. CCTV cameras were also seen in the area, and investigators are currently reviewing the footage.
Checks are being made to locate the suspect as investigations continue.
