The search for 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa continues with urgency as London police confirm they’ve discovered personal belongings believed to belong to the missing child near the River Thames in the UK — including her shoes, socks, and coat.
Kaliyah, who was reportedly off school for the day, was last seen entering the water near the Barge House Causeway on Monday, March 31.
Within minutes, emergency services were on the scene conducting a large-scale search effort, but has since not been located.
According to Chief Superintendent Dan Card of the Metropolitan Police, the department remains “committed to finding Kaliyah” and is working alongside partner agencies to scan the river and surrounding areas using drones and boats.
“Our thoughts go out to all those impacted by what has happened,” Card said. “We are supporting Kaliyah’s family through this deeply upsetting time.”
Distress at the Scene
Witnesses described the heartbreaking moments just after the child vanished beneath the water. According to Shaleen Rajaendram, a man was heard screaming for help, followed by the sight of two distressed children trying to flag down others.
“They said, ‘One of my friends was playing in the water, one of my friends has gone into water and she’s gone underneath and we can’t find her,’” Rajaendram told the BBC.
Another witness, who attempted to assist, described how Kaliyah was likely “paddling” — a British term for walking barefoot in shallow water — before the incident.
The woman brought a life preserver to the water’s edge but was unable to locate the child. She later discovered what appeared to be Kaliyah’s coat, socks, and shoes, which she handed over to police.
Community Hope and Concern
The tragic story has drawn widespread attention in the UK, with many expressing hope that Kaliyah will be found safe. Search crews continue to work tirelessly across the area, focusing efforts both on and along the water, expanding the scope of their operations as needed.
The Metropolitan Police urge anyone who was in the area around the Barge House Causeway on March 31 — or who may have relevant information — to come forward.
If you have any information that may assist in locating Kaliyah Coa, please contact the Metropolitan Police or Crimestoppers UK at 0800 555 111.
Our hearts are with Kaliyah’s family and friends during this painful time.
