Prime Minister Mark Phillips reports that 67 people have been rescued following the capsizing of the MV Barima ferry off Guyana's coast.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips confirmed that 67 people, including 15 children, have been rescued after the MV Barima ferry capsized off the coast of Guyana. The vessel, which was carrying 116 passengers and 17 crew members, overturned near Iron Punt while traveling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill stated that the disaster was caused by the tide rather than mechanical failure or overloading, noting the ship was operating within its legal weight capacity. The ferry was equipped with 250 life jackets and several life crafts to assist survivors. The search and rescue operation has expanded significantly, with the search area increasing to 1,070 square kilometers. The effort involves the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, Air Corps, private aircraft, and local fishing vessels. While dozens of passengers remain missing, a medical team has been dispatched to treat survivors as they are recovered. Assistance centers have been established to support the families of those still missing at sea.