Captain Arrested, Scores Feared Dead After Guyana Ferry Disaster
A massive search and rescue operation continued on Monday after a passenger ferry capsized off Guyana’s northern coast, leaving at least two people confirmed dead, 67 rescued, and dozens more feared missing in what authorities say could be the country’s deadliest maritime disaster in decades.
The MV Barima, carrying passengers from Georgetown to the northwestern community of Port Kaituma, overturned approximately seven miles offshore late Saturday night after issuing a distress call around 11:00 p.m.
Officials initially believed the vessel was carrying 116 passengers and 17 crew members based on the official manifest. However, investigators have since determined the passenger list was inaccurate, raising fears that significantly more people may have been aboard.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said only 35 of the 67 survivors were listed on the ferry’s manifest, suggesting numerous passengers boarded without being officially recorded.
“We are talking about operational breaches. People will be dealt with,” Edghill said, describing the situation as a criminal matter that severely complicated search and rescue efforts.
Authorities have now launched a criminal investigation focusing on the vessel’s operations, passenger manifest, cargo loading, and compliance with maritime safety regulations.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips said anyone found responsible would be held accountable. “Where negligence, misconduct or criminal wrongdoing is established, those responsible will face the full force of the law,” Phillips said.
The investigation has already resulted in the arrest of the ferry’s captain and first engineer after both tested positive for marijuana. They remain in police custody while investigators continue their inquiries.
Officials say rescue operations have become increasingly difficult as hopes of finding additional survivors diminish.
Among those rescued were 15 children. Most survivors suffered cuts, bruises, and exposure after spending hours clinging to debris, life jackets, and floating cargo before being rescued.
Several survivors reported the vessel began taking on water after encountering rough seas. Others claimed water had been seeping into the cargo area during the voyage before the ferry eventually capsized.
The MV Barima, built in 1939, underwent maintenance in 2024 and was reportedly scheduled for another major dry docking later this year.