Three Arab American women found dead in Belize

Three Arab American women were found dead over the weekend in a beach resort in Belize, and local police are investigating the deaths as a possible drug overdose.

The women, identified as 23-year-old Kawthar Naqqad, 24-year-old Imane Mallah, and 26-year-old Wafaa El-Arar, were staying at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro, Belize.

They had not been seen since entering their rooms on Thursday evening, and staff tried contacting them multiple times. When there was no response on Saturday morning, staff used a master key to enter the room and found the women unresponsive.

The cause of death has not been confirmed, but first responders noted that the women had froth around their mouths, suggesting a possible drug overdose. There were no signs of forced entry or visible injuries, and police found snacks, liquids, vapes, and other electronic devices in the room.

Belize police are continuing their investigation into the deaths. However, family members of the women, who are originally from Morocco and residing in Revere, Massachusetts, have expressed doubts about the theory of a drug overdose. They criticized the transparency of the Belizean investigation.

In the US, local officials have also voiced concerns. Patrick Keefe Jr., the mayor of Revere, assured that all efforts would be made to ensure a fair analysis of the case. He expressed disappointment over the lack of transparency in the investigation and mentioned that he had reached out to US lawmakers for support in seeking answers.

The US State Department has stated that it is closely monitoring the case and working with local authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The women had traveled to Belize to celebrate Wafaa El-Arar's birthday.