Guyana ferry capsizes; 66 missing after large wave

Rescue operations are underway in Guyana after a ferry carrying 133 people capsized, leaving 66 passengers missing. Authorities reported that 67 individuals, including 15 children, have been rescued from the disaster. The ferry, identified as the MV Barima, was traveling from the capital, Georgetown, to the jungle town of Port Kaituma when it overturned.

“

it is a big wave that overturned the Barima

Juan Edghill, the Minister of Public Works, stated that a "large wave" caused the ferry to capsize. He confirmed on Facebook that rescue efforts are progressing and provided an initial update on the number of survivors. Prime Minister Mark Phillips had earlier informed AFP that 53 people had been rescued, anticipating the number would rise.

“

Rescue and search operations are progressing. 67 people, including 15 children, have been rescued so far.

The MV Barima, reportedly built in 1939, departed Georgetown on Saturday night. It sent a distress message around 11:00 PM local time. The vessel was en route to Port Kaituma, a settlement accessible by sea before navigating inland waterways through the rainforest. Officials expressed hope for finding the remaining passengers, emphasizing that it was too early to make definitive statements about the situation.

“

The ferry capsized, and we are in the search and rescue phase. This search operation has been extended and is ongoing.