Ongoing Search for 11-Year-Old Missing in River Thames
The search for Kaliyah Coa, an 11-year-old girl who entered the River Thames near Barge House Causeway, has now entered its fourth day. Emergency services and local residents remain on high alert as efforts continue to locate the missing child.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Kaliyah was last seen at around 1:23 pm on March 31, near London City Airport, after entering the water while playing during a school inset day. Despite a swift response and a large-scale search, there has been no sign of her since.
Community in Shock and Grief
Local residents have expressed shock and sadness at the situation. Naomi Howard, a resident of the area, told ITV:
“I’m very upset. Even though it’s not my child, it could have been my child. There’s no safety for the children. If they did want to come paddling down here, there’s no safety.”
Another resident, Shaleen Rajaendram, recounted the distressing scene:
“I heard upstairs a guy was screaming ‘wait there, wait, the police is coming’. Then I saw suddenly two kids coming out to the top of the bridge, saying ‘one of my friends was playing in the water, and she’s gone underneath’.”
Lifelong resident Kerry Benadjaoud, who attempted to help, said:
“My neighbour next door was outside doing her garden when two little kids ran up saying ‘my friend’s in the water’. I grabbed a nearby life ring and ran to the river, but I couldn’t see her.”
The Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, shared her thoughts:
“I speak for everyone at Newham Council when I say that our prayers and thoughts are with Kaliyah’s family, her friends, and her school at this sad time. We are working closely with the police and other emergency services.”
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Chief Superintendent Dan Card, local policing commander for north east London, confirmed that specialist officers are supporting Kaliyah’s family during this distressing time:
“We are committed to finding Kaliyah and are working with partners to conduct a thorough search over a wide area, using drone technology and boats. Our thoughts go out to all those impacted.”
Authorities are also urging the public to stay vigilant and to approach officers if they have any concerns or information. The police have shared the first picture of Kaliyah to aid the search.
Community Efforts and Public Support
The Newham community has rallied around Kaliyah’s family, with many offering assistance in the search. Social media platforms are flooded with messages of support and prayers for her safe return.
Despite the ongoing efforts, there have been no new developments, and the search is expected to continue throughout the night. Police have reassured the public that they will be maintaining a presence in the area and will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.
How to Help
Anyone with information on Kaliyah’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting CAD 3699/31MAR. Alternatively, information can be shared through the dedicated online portal set up specifically for this investigation.
The search for Kaliyah Coa continues, and the community remains hopeful for her safe return.
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