A passenger ferry carrying over 100 people capsized off the coast of Guyana, with authorities fearing multiple fatalities. The MV Barima departed from the capital Georgetown for Port Kaituma on Saturday afternoon with at least 133 people on board.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill stated that the passenger list was inaccurate, complicating efforts to determine the exact number of missing persons. He urged families to contact officials to help establish a true tally.

Rescue operations began after air traffic control received a distress call from the ferry around 11 p.m. local time Saturday. So far, 67 people have been rescued, including 41 men, 11 women, six boys, and nine girls. Prime Minister Mark Phillips confirmed that the captain and mate were among the rescued and have returned to assist in the search.

However, no survivors have been found since Sunday afternoon. Edghill assured that search and rescue efforts continue, saying, “We are doing everything that is humanly possible to find them.”

Prime Minister Phillips announced an investigation into the incident, noting that two crew members tested positive for cannabis. The vessel, which underwent maintenance in 2024 and was due for inspection later this year, was licensed to carry over 300 passengers and equipped with 250 life jackets and eight life rafts.

Phillips warned that if negligence or criminal wrongdoing is established, those responsible will face the full force of the law.

Source: www.dw.com