A 16-year-old Emirati teenager has died after slipping and falling into the Adhen Dam in the Wadi Al Aim area of Ras Al Khaimah, an incident that has once again highlighted the urgent need to strengthen safety measures around dams and open water bodies.

The incident occurred on Sunday at approximately 4:30 PM, following the Asr prayer. According to Juma Ali Al Mazrouei, the victim's father, his son was cycling near the dam with his cousin when they approached the water's edge to wash mud off their feet.

He stated that the dam was completely full of water and there were no fences or barriers between the land and the water. According to the father, the teenager's foot became stuck in thick mud, and while trying to move, he lost his balance and fell into the water.

His cousin attempted to rescue him but was unsuccessful and immediately contacted the family. The teenager's father and uncle also entered the water upon arriving at the scene, but they were unable to reach him due to difficult conditions and strong currents.

According to witnesses, the teenager remained underwater for about an hour and a half before divers recovered his body. Rescue teams and an ambulance arrived at the scene, where his death was confirmed. The case has been referred to forensic authorities, as is standard procedure for drowning incidents.

The victim was a Grade 10 student, and his father said that with this incident, he has lost one of his six children.

The incident has sparked a wave of grief among local residents and intensified calls for increased safety around dams and wadis. Residents say these areas should be equipped with warning signs, fences, safety barriers, surveillance cameras, and increased patrols, especially during weekends and times when families and children frequent these locations.

Community members emphasized that the incident is a painful reminder of the dangers of open water bodies and natural areas lacking adequate safety equipment, urging immediate action to prevent such tragedies from recurring.