Kaliyah had been reported missing on Monday, March 31, after she was seen entering the water near Barge House Causeway during a school inset day.
Emergency services were called at around 1.23pm and launched an extensive search involving the Met Police, His Majesty’s Coastguard, the RNLI, London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service.
Despite the large-scale operation, Kaliyah’s body was not recovered until Sunday, April 13, when officers were alerted to a discovery in Maritime Quay, E14.
Formal identification was completed on Tuesday, April 29.
In a statement, Kaliyah’s heartbroken family said: “Our hearts are broken and our lives will never be the same.
“We were blessed to have Kaliyah, even if it was for such a short time. She will be missed so much. Kaliyah went to a birthday party and never returned home to her family.
“The family would like to thank all those who were involved in the search and recovery of Kaliyah.
“We sincerely hope that everyone will respect our wishes to be given the space and time to grieve as a family.”
Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, who led the investigation, paid tribute to Kaliyah and thanked the community and emergency responders.
“This tragic accident took away a little girl who was loved by many,” he said.
“Our specialist officers continue to support Kaliyah’s family as they come to terms with this devastating loss.
“I echo her family’s call for privacy and urge people not to engage in unfounded speculation, whether online or offline.
“My sincere thanks go to the search and recovery teams and our blue light partners, as well as the local community for their support.”
An inquest into Kaliyah’s death is expected to open on Friday, May 2.
