Ferry Disaster in Guyana: Dozens Missing After MV Barima Sinks
Ferry Disaster in Guyana: Dozens Missing After MV Barima Sinks
Tragedy strikes off the coast of Guyana as the MV Barima ferry capsizes with 133 on board. 67 rescued, but a desperate search continues for 66 missing passengers and crew. Stay updated.
A distressing maritime incident has occurred off the coast of Guyana, where the MV Barima ferry, carrying 116 passengers and 17 crew members, capsized and sank after departing from Georgetown on Saturday. Authorities have confirmed that 67 individuals have been rescued so far, including 15 children, 41 men, and 11 women, but a frantic search operation is still underway for the 66 people who remain missing.
The vessel, which had been en route to Port Kaituma, sent out a distress call at 11:01 PM local time on Saturday (3:01 AM GMT Sunday), immediately triggering a large-scale search and rescue effort. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill stated that government teams, alongside numerous privately-owned boats, have mobilized to scour the waters near Iron Punt, where the incident occurred. Prime Minister Mark Phillips expressed hope, telling reporters that efforts were "significantly increased" and search crews had more than doubled their operational area on Sunday.
The captain of the MV Barima, who was among those initially rescued, has bravely returned to the scene to assist in the ongoing search operations. Phillips reassured the public that the ferry was operating within its certified capacity, designed to hold over 300 passengers, and was well-equipped with 250 life jackets, two rigid life crafts, and six inflatable life crafts. Despite these safety measures, the vessel, built in 1939 and 40 meters long, succumbed to the waters.
Assistance centers have been established to provide support and information to the worried relatives of both the rescued and the still-missing individuals. Officials have indicated that the names of those on board will be released once rescue operations and medical checks are complete. The entire nation holds its breath, hoping for more positive news as the urgent search for survivors continues.
