A ferry with 116 passengers and crew onboard has overturned near Guyana’s coast, prompting a large-scale search and rescue operation, according to the country’s public works minister, Juan Edghill. Edghill mentioned in a live Facebook update that eight individuals from the MV Barima had been rescued. He also stated that a second ferry was en route to provide immediate medical assistance.
Following a distress call received at 11:01 pm local time, an emergency response involving both private and State resources was activated. Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Omar Khan of the Guyana Defence Force confirmed the deployment of the Air Corps and Coast Guard to the location. The vessel was en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma, departing at 3 pm on Saturday.
The Public Works Ministry reported that the MV Barima was equipped with 250 life jackets, two rigid lifeboats, and six inflatable life rafts. The operation remains ongoing, with hopes for the safe rescue of all individuals involved.
