Mark Phillips confirms 67 people have been rescued following the capsizing of the MV Barima ferry off the coast of Guyana.
Mark Phillips, the Prime Minister of Guyana, confirmed that 67 people, including 15 children, have been rescued following the capsizing of the MV Barima ferry. The vessel, which was carrying 116 passengers and 17 crew members, overturned near Iron Punt while traveling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma on Saturday night. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill stated that the accident was likely caused by the tide rather than mechanical failure or overloading, noting the ferry was operating within its legal weight limits. The ship was equipped with 250 life jackets and several lifeboats. The search and rescue operation, involving the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, Air Corps, and private vessels, has expanded its search area to 1,070 square kilometers. While the captain and mate are among the survivors, dozens of passengers remain missing. Phillips noted that investigators are currently looking into the incident to determine if any negligence occurred, while also reporting that two crew members tested positive for cannabis.