Georgetown, Guyana – An atmosphere of anxiety and anticipation prevails off the coast of Guyana as coast guard and rescue teams conduct large-scale search operations in Atlantic waters following the capsizing of the “Barima” ferry, which was en route to Port Kaituma. Authorities announced that 67 people, including 15 children, have been rescued, while dozens of passengers and crew members remain missing in a race against time to locate survivors.
Incident Details and Distress Call
Competent authorities reported that the watchtower received an urgent distress call from the “Barima” ferry at 11:01 PM on Saturday. Preliminary data indicate that the ferry was carrying a total of 133 people (116 passengers and 17 crew members). The technical reasons or weather conditions that led to the capsizing off the northern Atlantic coast are not yet clear, and investigations are in their early stages to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.
Intensive Rescue Operations
Guyanese authorities have deployed specialized units from the coast guard and marine rescue teams to participate in extensive sweeping operations at the incident site. Efforts are currently focused on reaching those missing who may have been swept away by currents or trapped following the capsizing. Despite the teams’ success in rescuing 67 people, including 15 children, hope remains that more survivors will be found amidst the challenging conditions characterizing the maritime area.
Judicial and technical authorities have begun investigations to determine the causes of the ferry capsizing and to establish whether there was technical negligence or unexpected emergency circumstances. Families of the missing and local authorities are awaiting any new developments from the ongoing search operations, while providing all forms of psychological and relief support to survivors and the families of those affected.
