Banta Sillah, 14, who died after entering the water at Millwall Outer Dock on Monday evening, has been identified as a talented young footballer. Emergency services were called at 6:48pm, and he was retrieved from the water at 10:30pm but pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Community in mourning
Heartbroken parents with young children were seen crying as they left flowers at the scene, along with locals paying their respects. Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfar Rahman expressed his grief, saying: "I am heartbroken by the tragic death of Banta Sillah, a 14-year-old member of our community in Tower Hamlets. Banta was a talented young footballer who played for Frontline Community FC and was instrumental in helping the team win the Tower Hamlets Cup last week. He had immense potential and was dearly loved by his peers."
He added: "My deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, teammates and all those affected by this devastating loss. The council is doing all it can to support Banta’s family in this difficult time. As we mourn Banta, I urge families to speak with children and young people, we should all be aware of the dangers swimming in open water. Swimming should only take place in officially designated areas with lifeguards present."
Investigation and warnings
The Metropolitan Police said a file has been passed to the coroner, and the death is being treated as not suspicious. Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter issued a warning: "Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of this young boy at this incredibly difficult time. As the warm weather continues, I would urge everyone to remember that open water can present serious dangers. Please only swim in designated areas and take the time to speak with children and young people about staying safe around water."
A total of 43 people have died in open water since the first spell of hot weather in mid-May. The Mirror has launched the Save Lives For Sam water safety campaign this summer to call for urgent action to tackle Britain's drowning crisis. Andy Burnham backed the campaign last week, saying: "I give great credit to The Mirror, so often a campaigning newspaper, but rightly so on this issue... It's really important that people understand the dangers of open water swimming, particularly if people are not regular swimmers, it can cause real issues."
He added: "Water safety measures around is part of it. It's also about making sure, as part of the curriculum, kids get the right swimming support, and that's I think a key part of the campaign."
