The search for missing 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa has now entered its ninth day, as emergency services continue their efforts to locate the schoolgirl who tragically fell into the River Thames on March 31.
Kaliyah was last seen entering the water near Barge House Causeway at around 1:23pm, during what police have confirmed was a school inset day. She had reportedly been playing with friends when the incident occurred.
Despite an extensive emergency response and recovery operation involving drone technology, police boats, and specialist officers, Kaliyah remains missing. The Metropolitan Police confirmed today (April 8) that the investigation is still ongoing.
Panic and Distress at the Scene
Local residents have spoken of the chaotic and heartbreaking scenes that unfolded that afternoon.
Shaleen Rajaendram, who lives near the riverbank, described hearing children screaming for help before a man on a balcony shouted to them: “Wait there, the police is coming.” She told UK News In Pictures:
“Then I saw suddenly two kids were coming out to the top of the bridge… They said, ‘One of my friends was playing in the water… and she’s gone underneath and we can’t find her.’”
Ms Rajaendram immediately raised the alarm and helped another neighbour retrieve a life ring, but by then it was too late. The water, described as “very high” and fast-flowing, coupled with a slippery moss-covered causeway, created a perilous environment.
Community Concerns Over Safety
Residents have since voiced concerns over poor safety infrastructure along the river. Naomi Howard, a local parent, said that there are no visible signs warning children or parents about the dangers of the river in that area.
“I’m very upset. Even though it’s not my child, it could have been my child,” she said. “There’s no safety for the children. If they did want to come paddling down here, there’s no safety.”
The incident has reignited calls for better riverside signage and protection measures, particularly in areas where children are known to play.
Police Response and Ongoing Search
Chief Superintendent Dan Card, local policing commander for north east London, acknowledged the pain and distress the incident has caused the community and Kaliyah’s family.
“Our specialist officers are supporting Kaliyah’s family through this deeply upsetting time and our thoughts go out to all those impacted,” he said.
He praised the swift response of emergency crews and members of the public, adding that the police remain committed to a “thorough search over a wide area.”
Additional officers will remain in the area in the coming days. Residents are encouraged to speak with police if they have concerns or any information that could assist in the ongoing efforts.
How to Help
Authorities continue to ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has CCTV, mobile, or dash cam footage from the Barge House Causeway area on March 31 to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact the Met Police on 101, quoting incident reference for March 31 at 1:23pm.
As the search continues, the community holds onto hope while mourning the tragic circumstances. Floral tributes have begun to appear near the site, with heartfelt messages calling for Kaliyah’s safe return or closure for her grieving family.
