A ferry carrying 133 people capsized off the coast of Guyana late Saturday, raising fears of multiple fatalities. Authorities are investigating potential factors such as an inaccurate passenger list and drug use by the crew. So far, 67 people, including 15 children, have been rescued, but no survivors have been found since Sunday afternoon. The captain and crew members are now in police custody.
The MV Barima was en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma when it capsized about seven miles from shore. A distress call was received around 11 p.m., prompting a search operation hampered by darkness and limited resources. The search area has since expanded, and divers have been deployed to locate bodies.
Initial reports indicated no signs of neglect, but later, it was revealed that the captain and another crew member tested positive for marijuana. Additionally, discrepancies in the passenger manifest complicate rescue efforts. The ferry had undergone maintenance in 2024 and was scheduled for dry docking later this year.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips announced an investigation into possible wrongdoing among police and maritime officials, emphasizing that those found negligent will face legal consequences. The tragedy has deeply affected families, with some survivors recounting harrowing experiences.
Share it now
