Police have discovered a body in the River Thames during the search for 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa, who went missing after entering the water near Barge House Causeway in North Woolwich on 31 March.
The Metropolitan Police were alerted to the presence of a body in Maritime Quay, east London, at approximately 9:03AM on Sunday, per BBC News.
While formal identification has not yet taken place, Kaliyah's family has been informed of the development and is being supported by specialist officers. The family has requested privacy during this time.
Kaliyah had been playing with friends on a school inset day when she entered the river near a concrete slope used for boat transport.
Local residents noted that the slope appeared to be covered in moss and was slippery. Witnesses reported hearing shouts and screams, and other children playing nearby said a girl had disappeared into the water and could not be found.
Emergency services responded promptly, launching a large-scale search involving the Metropolitan Police, London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade, the RNLI, and the coastguard. Despite extensive efforts, the operation was later scaled down.
Chief Superintendent Dan Card stated: “Our specialist officers are supporting Kaliyah’s family through this deeply upsetting time and our thoughts go out to all those impacted by what has happened. We are committed to finding Kaliyah and are working with partners to conduct a thorough search over a wide area – utilising drone technology and boats.”
Some weeks ago, a relative told The Sun: "It was her birthday last week, she had only just turned 11. She was a beautiful bubbly girl, a very happy girl and lovely girl.”
A witness also described seeing a young boy try to save her - but the current was too strong.
They said: “The only witness with her was the little boy. I saw his hand trying to pull her, but the water was too strong for her. I’m really heartbroken, I couldn’t sleep last night, I just thought of the parents.
The incident has raised concerns about safety measures along the riverbank, particularly in areas frequented by children. Local authorities and community leaders are expected to review safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward. The community remains in mourning as they await further updates.