The frantic hunt for 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa, who plunged into the River Thames near Barge House Causeway, has now reached its fifth day. Despite desperate efforts, Kaliyah remains missing since she was last seen entering the river at around 1:23pm on March 31.
The school inset day turned tragic when Kaliyah was playing near London City Airport. Friends raised the alarm after she disappeared beneath the water, shouting for help.
Community in Shock: Eye-Witnesses Recall Frantic Moments
Local residents have described chaotic scenes as neighbours and children screamed for assistance. Shaleen Rajaendram, 59, told UKNIP:
“I heard a man shouting from a balcony, ‘Wait, the police is coming!’ Then two kids appeared on the bridge saying, ‘One of my friends has gone into the water – she’s underwater and we can’t find her.’”
Another resident, Naomi Howard, slammed the area’s lack of safety measures, saying:
“I’m very upset. Even though it’s not my child, it could have been. There’s no safety here. If kids come paddling, there’s no protection.”
Police Press On With Search Using Drones and Boats
The Metropolitan Police remain committed to finding Kaliyah. Chief Superintendent Dan Card, local commander for north east London, said:
“Our specialist officers are supporting Kaliyah’s family through this deeply upsetting time. We are working with partners to conduct a thorough wide-area search using drone technology and boats.”
Though the initial large-scale response has been scaled down, officers continue to scour the River Thames and nearby zones. Extra police will stay on-site to support the community in the coming days.
Calls Grow to Improve Safety at Barge House Causeway
The tragedy has sparked fresh safety concerns at the Barge House Causeway, a spot with slippery, moss-covered slipways and no barriers or warning signs. Residents demand local authorities urgently review safety protocols to protect children, especially with high water levels making the area more dangerous.
Community Rally Behind Kaliyah’s Family
Support for Kaliyah’s loved ones is pouring in as the search continues. Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101 or speak to officers at the scene.
For now, the family clings to hope for Kaliyah’s safe return while the local community stands united during this heartbreaking ordeal.
