A large-scale search-and-rescue operation commenced following the sinking of the MV Barima off the coast of Guyana in South America late on Saturday. The incident has been characterized by officials as among the country’s most significant maritime disasters, with two confirmed fatalities and ongoing recovery efforts.
Authorities initiated a criminal investigation after discovering discrepancies in vessel documentation and personnel conduct. Government officials reported that the captain and first engineer tested positive for marijuana, and the passenger manifest proved inaccurate—only 35 of 67 people rescued had been listed on official documentation. Guyana’s minister of public works, Juan Edghill, stated at a press conference that the manifest contained approximately 32 unrecorded individuals among those rescued, describing the situation as involving “operational breaches.” Both the captain and first engineer were taken into police custody pending further investigation.
The ferry departed Georgetown at approximately 3:15 pm on Saturday bound for Port Kaituma in the Essequibo region. A distress call came in shortly after 11 pm, prompting response from multiple agencies including the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard and Air Corps, private aircraft, fishing vessels, and civilian volunteers. Search operations were expanded from an initial 400 square kilometers to 1,070 square kilometers, with additional aircraft and vessels deployed alongside local fishing communities familiar with regional waters.
Survivors provided accounts of the vessel’s final moments, with some reporting the ferry had listed noticeably hours before capsizing. Rescue efforts continued into the following day as families sought information about missing relatives. Prime Minister Mark Phillips announced that a comprehensive investigation would examine the accuracy of passenger documentation and adherence to maritime safety regulations, with assurance that those responsible for any negligence or wrongdoing would face legal consequences. International and regional partners offered assistance in the ongoing rescue operation.