About 60 people missing after a ferry with 133 on board capsized in Guyana

A ferry carrying 133 people capsized off the Atlantic coast of Guyana, leaving around 60 people missing, according to reports from local authorities. The incident occurred late Saturday night, with the vessel departing from Georgetown bound for Port Kaituma. At least 67 individuals, including 15 children, were rescued alive during Sunday’s operations, while the remaining 66 remain unaccounted for. The MV Barima, which was operating under normal conditions, had set sail at approximately 21:15 local time on Saturday, carrying 116 passengers and 17 crew members. The journey, which typically lasts over 14 hours, is one of the more affordable options for transportation within Guyana, particularly for residents and traders in Region One who rely on the service to move goods and travel to Georgetown and other communities. According to the Ministry of Public Works, the ship's operator, the tower of control at Timheri received an emergency call at 05:01 local time on Sunday, prompting immediate action. Authorities have confirmed that the vessel encountered a large wave, causing it to capsize. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation, though initial accounts suggest the wave played a critical role. The minister of public works, Juan A. Edghill, stated that the MV Barima was equipped with 250 life jackets and six inflatable rafts, all in compliance with safety regulations. Despite these precautions, the disaster has left many families in distress. Emergency response teams have deployed aerial and maritime resources from regions two and three to assist in the search and rescue efforts. Medical services have been activated, with hospitals and mobile medical units prepared to receive and treat survivors. Emergency family assistance centers have been established in key locations, including the community center in Port Kaituma, the NAREI extension center in Kumaka, Mabaruma, and the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown. The government has emphasized its commitment to recovering all missing persons and providing support to affected families. Prime Minister Mark Phillips expressed his focus on ensuring everyone is accounted for and reiterated the importance of continuing the search and rescue operations. He also highlighted the establishment of temporary aid centers to help those impacted by the tragedy. Local officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. While some details remain unclear, the incident has sparked discussions about maritime safety and the need for further improvements in coastal transport infrastructure. Many residents in the affected areas have expressed concern over the frequency of such incidents and the challenges faced by those relying on this mode of transport for daily necessities. As the search continues, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing efforts to locate the missing and provide care to those who survived. The government has pledged to keep the public informed and to take necessary measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. For now, the focus remains on recovery and support for the victims and their families.