The confirmed death toll from the capsizing of Guyana's state ferry MV Barima rose to 72 as multinational crews recovered bodies and attempted to salvage the partially submerged vessel. Of an estimated 179 people aboard, 76 were rescued and authorities fear up to 100 may have died, potentially making this the country's worst maritime disaster. Police have detained three people as a criminal investigation continues while the government covers funeral costs and awaits a commission of inquiry to review the findings.
Death Toll Rises to 72 as International Teams Work to Salvage Capsized Guyana Ferry
A map showing where a ferry capsized off the coast of Guyana. (AP Digital Embed)(AP Photo/Will Jarrett)
The confirmed death toll from the capsizing of the state ferry MV Barima rose to 72 on Thursday as multinational teams recovered more bodies and worked to salvage the partially submerged vessel off Guyana's Essequibo coast.
What Happened
The 87-year-old ferry departed the capital, Georgetown, on Saturday bound for Port Kaituma when it began taking on water and capsized in Atlantic waters. Authorities estimate about 179 people were aboard; 76 were rescued, and officials say as many as 100 may have died, which would make this the deadliest maritime disaster in Guyana's history.
"The government of Guyana continues to stand in solidarity with all those affected during this difficult time and will ensure that every available resource is deployed until the operation is brought to a safe and dignified conclusion," Prime Minister Mark Phillips said.
Salvage, Search And International Aid
Divers and salvage crews from Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago and local teams have joined recovery operations. Officials say they hope to inspect the vessel for structural damage that could explain why it began taking on water. Search teams have expanded the area they are combing as they continue to recover bodies and look for missing passengers.
FILE - People sit on the seawall as the sun sets in Georgetown, Guyana, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix, File)(AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)
Investigation And Accountability
Police have opened a criminal investigation and detained three people so far: the rescued captain, a crew member who reportedly tested positive for marijuana, and the marine superintendent responsible for overseeing the ferry's loading. The government says the vessel was within capacity for passengers and cargo, but several survivors have told reporters they believe the ferry was overloaded. The ship's manifest listed 116 passengers and 17 crew, though authorities suspect the actual number aboard may have been as high as 179.
Government Response And Outstanding Questions
Prime Minister Phillips said the MV Barima was uninsured and that the government is covering funeral and related expenses. He urged patience while investigators complete their work; the findings will be reviewed by a commission of inquiry that has not yet been formed. Many Guyanese have questioned the speed and adequacy of the rescue response, with survivors saying they spent hours in the water before being rescued.
When asked why an 87-year-old ferry remained in service, officials said a replacement vessel recently acquired from India could not be deployed until a new pier at Port Kaituma was finished. The MV Barima was last dry-docked in 2024 for major repairs and had additional work scheduled for October.
Key facts: 72 confirmed dead, 76 rescued, international divers assisting, criminal probe ongoing, government covering funerals.
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