The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has expressed sympathy and support to Guyana following the capsizing of the passenger ferry MV Barima, an incident that has left multiple people dead, others missing, and prompted an extensive government investigation.
According to the Guyana Chronicle, the MV Barima was travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma when it overturned late Saturday night about seven miles offshore near the Pomeroon River. The vessel had departed the Kingston Goods Wharf earlier that afternoon.
By Sunday evening, rescue teams had saved 67 people, while two bodies had been recovered. Search and rescue efforts continued as authorities worked to locate those who remained unaccounted for.
In a statement, CARICOM said it was “deeply saddened by the capsizing of the passenger ferry, MV Barima, off the Atlantic coast near the Pomeroon River.”
CARICOM also praised the emergency response, stating, “CARICOM pays tribute to the courage, dedication and selfless efforts of the rescue teams and all who are responding in the aftermath of the incident, led by relevant arms of the Government of Guyana, and including private vessel operators, who mobilized overnight in challenging conditions to save lives.”
The Community further affirmed that it “stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Guyana, in particular, the families and communities that are being impacted by this unfolding disaster.”
Meanwhile, the Guyana Chronicle reported that the government has suspended the entire management team responsible for the ferry’s loading, dispatch and operational oversight as investigators examine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill announced the decision on Monday, explaining that the suspensions are intended to ensure a full, transparent and impartial investigation while preventing any potential interference with evidence.
Reportedly, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has ordered an urgent multi-agency probe after investigators uncovered what officials described as troubling findings. Authorities discovered significant discrepancies in the passenger manifest, revealing that only 35 of the 67 rescued passengers appeared on the official list.
According to Al Jazeera, the vessel was reportedly carrying at least 133 passengers, leaving the possibility that dozens of people could be dead.
Investigators also confirmed that both the vessel’s captain and first engineer tested positive for cannabis following medical examinations after their rescue, as per the Chronicle. Government officials have stressed that anyone found responsible for negligence, misconduct or criminal wrongdoing will be held fully accountable under the law.
President Irfaan Ali has met with the rescued passengers as well as families and loved ones of those still missing.
Search operations remain underway both at sea and along nearby coastlines as authorities continue efforts to locate those still missing and provide answers to affected families.
CARICOM said it continues to monitor the ongoing rescue operation and offered prayers and support to families awaiting news of missing loved ones.
