A 14-year-old boy drowned at a dock in East London on Monday evening amid ongoing high temperatures across the region. Police responded to reports at Millwall Outer Dock on the Isle of Dogs around 6:40 p.m. The teenager’s body was recovered approximately four hours later, at 10:30 p.m.

The deceased was identified by Lutfur Rahman, Mayor of Tower Hamlets, as Banta Sillah. According to Rahman, Banta was a promising young footballer who played for Frontline Community FC and was deeply cherished by his community. The mayor used the occasion to remind the public of the hazards associated with swimming in open water, particularly during the current heatwave.

Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter of the Metropolitan Police emphasized the importance of swimming only in designated safe areas. Authorities have confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and no further details have been released at this time.

This incident has reignited concerns over the risks posed by open water swimming, especially during periods of elevated temperatures when more individuals may seek relief in waterways not intended for safe swimming. Emergency services and local officials continue to urge caution and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent further tragedies.