Heartbreaking Search for Missing 11-Year-Old Girl in Thames Enters Fourth Day
The desperate hunt for 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa continues as she remains missing after entering the River Thames near Barge House Causeway. It’s now day four of the extensive search, with emergency services and local residents refusing to give up.
Last Seen Near London City Airport on School Inset Day
The Metropolitan Police confirmed Kaliyah vanished at around 1:23 pm on March 31. She was playing close to London City Airport during a school inset day when she entered the water and disappeared. Despite an immediate and large-scale response involving drones and boats, there have been no signs of her so far.
Community in Shock: Eyewitnesses Recall Distress
Locals are devastated. Naomi Howard said:
“I’m very upset. Even though it’s not my child, it could have been my child. There’s no safety for the children here.”
Another resident, Shaleen Rajaendram, described the terrifying scene:
“I heard someone shouting ‘wait, the police are coming’. Then two kids ran up saying one friend went under the water.”
Lifelong local Kerry Benadjaoud tried to help:
“Two kids ran up saying their friend was in the water. I grabbed a life ring and rushed to the river but couldn’t see her.”
Newham Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE expressed her condolences:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Kaliyah’s family, friends, and school. We are working closely with police and emergency services.”
Police Lead High-Tech Search and Urge Public to Help
Chief Superintendent Dan Card, local policing commander, said:
“We’re committed to finding Kaliyah. We’re conducting a thorough search using drone technology and boats. Our thoughts are with everyone affected.”
Authorities have released the first photo of Kaliyah to boost public awareness and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Community Rallies as Search Continues
The Newham community has banded together in hope, flooding social media with support and prayers. While no breakthroughs have been made, police will maintain a strong presence and provide timely updates.
How You Can Help Find Kaliyah
- If you have any information, contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting CAD 3699/31MAR.
- You can also submit details through the dedicated online portal set up for this investigation.
The search for Kaliyah Coa presses on, with a community desperate for her safe return.
