Heartbroken locals laid flowers and paid tribute to Banta Sillah, 14, after he tragically drowned after going into a dock
A 14-year-old boy who tragically died after going into a London dock was a ‘talented footballer” and much-loved youngster.
Banta Sillah entered the water at Millwall Outer Dock on Monday evening and emergency services were called to the scene at 6:48pm. The Metropolitan Police said the boy was retrieved from the water at 10:30pm but tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Heartbroken parents with their young children were seen crying as they left flowers at the scene, along with locals who came to pay their respects.
Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfar Rahman said: “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.
Rahman said the council was supporting the boy’s family, and said: “My deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, teammates and all those affected by this devastating loss.”
He added: “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.”
Jennine Paris, a staff member at Stebon Primary School, spoke to the Mirror remembered Banta as a “friendly” boy. She said: “Cute, friendly, very polite, along with all of his family they are, a happy young boy.”
The Met said a file has now been passed to the coroner, and his death is being treated as not suspicious.
Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter issued a warning after the tragic death and said: “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 this 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.
“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.”
