Omanghana
At least 67 people have been rescued after the government-operated passenger ferry MV Barima capsized and sank off the northern Atlantic coast of Guyana, triggering a major air and sea search-and-rescue operation.
Authorities are continuing efforts to locate additional passengers and crew members believed to be missing following the maritime disaster.
Ferry Was Traveling From Georgetown to Port Kaituma
The MV Barima departed Georgetown on Saturday afternoon, carrying passengers and crew members bound for Port Kaituma in the Essequibo region.
The vessel later encountered difficulties and capsized near Iron Punt, close to the mouth of the Pomeroon River, leaving passengers stranded at sea.
A distress call from the vessel was detected by the Timehri air traffic control tower at 11:01 PM local time on Saturday, prompting an immediate emergency response.
133 People Were on Board
Initial reports focused on the number of passengers aboard the ferry, but the Guyanese government later confirmed that the vessel was carrying a total of 133 people, including 116 passengers and 17 crew members.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips said the 67 people rescued so far include:
- 41 men, including the ferry captain, who returned to the area to assist rescue teams
- 11 women
- 15 children
Authorities have not yet confirmed the final number of missing individuals.
Large-Scale Search and Rescue Operation Underway
A wide-ranging rescue mission involving multiple agencies is currently underway.
The search operation includes:
- Helicopters
- Military aircraft
- Coast Guard vessels
- Civilian fishing boats
- Other maritime rescue assets
Officials have expanded the search area to approximately 1,000 square miles, with teams scanning the ocean for survivors and any signs of the missing passengers.
Vessel Was Not Overloaded, Officials Say
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said preliminary assessments indicate that the ferry was not overloaded at the time of the incident.
According to officials, the MV Barima was certified to carry more than 300 passengers and was equipped with:
- 250 life jackets
- Six inflatable life rafts
- Two rigid lifeboats
Initial accounts from rescued passengers suggest that strong tidal conditions may have contributed to the vessel capsizing rather than excessive passenger weight.
Emergency Support for Families
The Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation has established emergency assistance centers to support families affected by the tragedy.
The centers are providing relatives with:
- Real-time updates on rescue efforts
- Information about missing passengers
- Psychological support services
Investigation Expected After Rescue Efforts
While rescue operations remain the immediate priority, authorities are expected to launch a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the sinking once the search phase is complete.
Officials continue to urge the public to rely on verified updates as emergency teams work around the clock to account for everyone who was aboard the MV Barima.
Source: Omanghana
