Just two days after 14-year-old Banta Sillah drowned in Millwall Outer Dock in east London, a man was seen swimming in the same waters, prompting onlookers to express shock and frustration. The swimmer jumped over a railing and entered the Thames at the dock, performing breaststroke near a jetty adorned with floral tributes for the deceased boy.
Witnesses Express Disbelief
A dog walker who witnessed the incident told Metro: 'It's beyond belief. It's a no-swimming area and it's the scene of a drowning this week. It's idiocy.' Another local, a canal boat owner, added: 'We have reported people swimming here, but nothing is ever done. Today a man is in there; it's madness.'
The swimmer, who spoke to Metro, claimed he was unaware of the recent tragedy. 'It's my first time swimming here; I didn't know about the death. I wouldn't have done it if I had known. It looks like a bit of a statement but it wasn't my intention. The water is very deep, so I can imagine someone getting into trouble in that water,' he said.
Unofficial Swimming Spot Despite Warnings
The dock features a deck that serves as an unofficial diving and jumping platform, despite clear signage prohibiting swimming and warning of deep water. Locals noted that Banta was part of a group swimming there to cool off during London's recent heatwave. They also mentioned that Tower Hamlets Council previously funded wardens to patrol the area, but this service was discontinued.
The swimmer suggested that the area should be patrolled by a lifeguard to prevent future incidents.
Tributes and Official Response
Tributes have poured in for Banta, described as a 'wonderful boy' and a talented young footballer who played for Frontline Community FC. Tower Hamlets mayor Lutfur Rahman expressed his heartbreak in a Facebook post, saying: '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. 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.'
A close family friend told Metro: 'He was just a wonderful boy. He was a family-loving boy. His mother had a newborn. He already has brothers and sisters. The whole family is devastated.'
Police Investigation and Safety Warning
Police were called at around 6.48pm on Monday, August 3, to reports that a 14-year-old boy had entered the Millwall Outer Dock near East Ferry Road, E14. Officers, along with the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade, conducted an extensive search. The boy was retrieved from the river at 10.30pm and pronounced dead. His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported.
Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter stated: '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.' The death is being treated as unexpected but not suspicious, with enquiries ongoing to prepare a report for the coroner.
