Missing boy found dead in waters off East Coast Park

The body of a boy was recovered from the waters near East Coast Park on Saturday (Aug 30).

Responding to AsiaOne's queries, the police said that they received a call for assistance at 9.55pm and spotted the boy's body floating in the water upon arrival.

Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) officers brought the boy ashore and subsequently pronounced him dead onsite.

According to the police, preliminary investigations do not suspect foul play.

The deceased was subsequently identified by his next-of-kin to be 11-year-old Muhammad Hairil Bin Muhammad Effendi who was reported missing on Friday (Aug 29).

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Hairil, who had special needs, was last seen near Block 29 Marine Crescent at around 11.05am then, having left home barefoot and shirtless, said the police in a statement on Friday.

"Out of respect for the family, members of the public are advised not to share any videos or images of the deceased," said the police on Sunday.

'Sad day for Marine Parade family'

Member of Parliament for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC Goh Pei Ming wrote on Facebook on Sunday (Aug 31) that "it is a sad day for the Marine Parade family as we mourn the loss of one of our own".

He said that he was with Hairil's family when the boy's body was found on Saturday night.

"My heart goes out to them during this incredibly difficult time. The Marine Parade family stands with them, and we will do everything we can to support them through this period of grief and healing," he posted.

Goh also extended his gratitude to the police and the SCDF for their tireless efforts and dedication.

"Their professionalism and compassion have been a source of strength for the family and the community," he said.

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dana.leong@asiaone.com