Boy, 14, Who Died in River Thames Named As Banta Sillah

Emergency services were alerted about 6.50pm after he went into the water near Millwall Outer Dock, and his body was recovered around 10.30pm. Tower Hamlets Mayor Lutfur Rahman said he was 'heartbroken' over the 'tragic' death, describing Banta as a player for Frontline Community FC who helped the team win the Tower Hamlets Cup last week. 'He had immense potential and was dearly loved by his peers, Mr Rahman said, adding that the council is supporting the family.

He urged families to discuss the dangers of swimming in open water, stressing that swimming should only occur in designated areas with lifeguards. The Met Police have not officially named the boy, and his death is being treated as unexpected but not suspicious, with inquiries continuing for the coroner. There have been more than 100 accidental drownings in London in the past six years, and dozens of people have died in open water this summer during hot weather. The Royal Life Saving Society urged people to 'stop and think before entering water, while the UK Health Security Agency warned of cold water shock, which can lead to drowning regardless of swimming ability.