Medina/Jeddah:
What was meant to be a spiritually fulfilling Umrah pilgrimage ended in devastating tragedy for a Kerala family, as four of its members lost their lives in a fatal road accident in Saudi Arabia. The incident occurred near Medina on Saturday evening while the family was returning to Jeddah after performing Umrah in Mecca.
The deceased have been identified as Abdul Jaleel (52), his mother Maimunath Kakkengal (73), his wife Thasna Thodengal (40), and their 14-year-old son Aadhil Jaleel. The family hailed from Vellila near Manjeri in Kerala’s Malappuram district.
According to reports, the accident took place around 6 pm when the car in which the family was travelling collided with a truck on the highway. The impact was severe, resulting in the deaths of four family members on the spot.
Three Daughters Critical, Undergoing Treatment
Three daughters of Abdul Jaleel — Ayisha, Hadiya, and Noorah — sustained serious injuries in the crash. They have been admitted to different hospitals in Saudi Arabia, where they are currently undergoing intensive medical treatment. Their condition is reported to be critical.
Family Had Travelled for Umrah
Abdul Jaleel was working in Jeddah, while his family had travelled from Kerala to Saudi Arabia on tourist visas to perform Umrah. After completing the pilgrimage in Mecca, they were en route back to Jeddah when the tragic accident occurred near Medina.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community in Manjeri, with relatives, friends, and well-wishers expressing deep grief over the sudden loss. Efforts are reportedly underway to provide medical assistance to the injured children and to coordinate further formalities through community and official channels.
The tragedy once again highlights the risks faced by travellers on long highway journeys and has left the Kerala expatriate community in Saudi Arabia in mourning.
About the Author
