The confirmed death toll from the capsizing of a state-owned ferry off the coast of Guyana has climbed to 72. A multinational team is currently working to salvage the partially submerged vessel, the 87-year-old MV Barima, while continuing efforts to recover the remaining bodies. Officials have estimated that as many as 100 people may have perished in the incident, which stands as the worst marine tragedy in the nation's history.
Reports indicate that approximately 179 people were aboard the vessel when it departed Georgetown on Saturday, bound for Port Kaituma. Of those, only 76 individuals have been rescued. The ship began taking on water and subsequently capsized in Atlantic waters off the Essequibo coast. Prime Minister Mark Phillips confirmed that search operations have been expanded, stating that the government is committed to finding all victims to ensure they can be buried with dignity. He emphasized that every available resource remains deployed to bring the operation to a conclusion.
Police have launched a criminal investigation and detained three people so far, including the rescued captain and a crew member the authorities say tested positive for marijuana. The marine superintendent tasked with overseeing the ferry's loading process is also in custody. While the government maintains the vessel was operating within its capacity for both passengers and cargo, survivors have disputed this, alleging that the ship was overloaded. Although the official manifest listed 116 passengers and 17 crew members, authorities now believe the actual number of people on board was significantly higher.
A growing number of Guyanese are questioning why it took so long to rescue people, with some survivors telling the Associated Press that they spent hours in the water. In response to criticism, Prime Minister Phillips has asked for public patience while awaiting the results of the official investigation, which will eventually be reviewed by a commission of inquiry. Addressing questions regarding the age of the vessel, the government noted that a replacement ship had been acquired from India but was awaiting the completion of a new pier at Port Kaituma. The MV Barima had undergone major repairs during a dry dock in 2024 and was scheduled for further maintenance this October.
The prime minister, Mark Phillips, said late on Thursday that crews have widened the search area and are determined to find all those who were aboard so loved ones can bury them with dignity.
Divers from countries including Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago are trying to salvage the vessel, with officials saying they hope to inspect it for any possible damage that could shed light on what happened.
