At least 53 people have died after a passenger ferry capsized off the coast of Guyana over the weekend. Rescue teams continue search and recovery efforts following one of the country’s deadliest maritime accidents in recent years.
The MV Barima was traveling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma in Guyana’s Essequibo region when it overturned on Saturday night.
Rescue operations began early Sunday after authorities received reports of the accident. So far, officials have rescued 76 people from the water.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips confirmed the updated death toll during a press conference on Tuesday.
He said, “A total of 53 bodies have been recovered.”
Phillips also stated, “We’ve recorded 76 persons that were rescued as of 6 pm (2200GMT) today.”
Passenger Numbers Under Review
Authorities initially faced uncertainty over the number of passengers on board because of an inaccurate passenger manifest.
The original list showed 133 passengers. However, officials later determined that about 179 people were likely traveling on the ferry when the accident occurred.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said the incorrect passenger records complicated rescue and recovery efforts.
Investigation Into Ferry Disaster Begins
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident.
Prime Minister Phillips said two crew members tested positive for marijuana after the incident. Investigators are examining whether this or any other factors contributed to the ferry capsizing.
The ferry began its journey during the afternoon, and authorities received a distress call about eight hours later.
According to shipping records, the MV Barima was built in 1939. The vessel operated on a route connecting Georgetown with Port Kaituma, a remote town located deep within Guyana’s rainforest.
The area requires passengers to travel by sea before entering inland rivers to reach their destination.
Rescue Efforts Continue
Emergency teams continue searching for anyone who may still be missing.
The tragedy has shocked communities across Guyana, where ferry services remain an important mode of transportation for many remote regions.
Guyana, located on the northeastern coast of South America, also shares the oil-rich Essequibo region with neighboring Venezuela in an ongoing territorial dispute.
Authorities are expected to release additional information as the investigation and rescue operations continue.
