Desperate Search Underway After Ferry Sinks Off Guyana's Coast

A major search and rescue operation is currently in progress after the MV Barima, a passenger ferry carrying 116 individuals, began sinking off the coast of Guyana. The vessel, which operates between Georgetown and Port Kaituma, sent out a distress call just after 11 PM local time on Saturday, prompting an immediate response from the Guyanese Coast Guard and nearby private vessels. As of now, at least 53 people have been rescued. Guyana's Prime Minister, Mark Phillips, has stated that the search efforts will continue throughout the day and expressed optimism that the number of rescued individuals is expected to rise. Updates and images featuring the ongoing rescue operations were shared by the Prime Minister on Facebook. In addition to the coast guard, which is actively engaged in the search, government minister Juan Edghill reported via a Facebook video that medical teams have been dispatched to assist survivors as they are brought ashore by rescuers. The ferry itself was equipped with 250 life jackets, two rigid life rafts, and six inflatable life rafts, providing some measure of safety to those aboard. The MV Barima, constructed in 1939 and measuring approximately 40 meters in length, is a critical transport link for passengers and cargo in Guyana's North West District, regularly ferrying travelers to various remote communities. As search efforts continue, the situation remains fluid with authorities prioritizing the safety and rescue of any remaining passengers. Further updates are expected as the search operation unfolds in the light of day. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2