Guyana ferry disaster: 27 bodies recovered, crew faces scrutiny after drug tests

Guyanese authorities have recovered 27 bodies from the MV Barima, a ferry that capsized off the coast with 179 people on board, in what is being described as the nation's worst marine disaster in decades. The vessel issued a distress call on Saturday night while en route from the capital, Georgetown, to Port Kaituma in the country's northwest.

As of Monday, officials reported that 69 individuals had been rescued, while 83 remained unaccounted for. The situation was complicated by the discovery that 32 rescued individuals were not listed on the ferry's manifest, suggesting the actual number of people on board may have been significantly higher than initially recorded. This discrepancy has raised concerns about the accuracy of passenger logs and the overall safety protocols.

“

We have a zero tolerance for members of the crew drinking or smoking while at work. And for us to have positive tests from the captain, this is serious.

An investigation into potential negligence by the ferry's crew has been launched by Prime Minister Mark Phillips. Adding to the gravity of the situation, police confirmed that the ferry's captain and at least one other crew member were taken into custody following positive drug tests for marijuana. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill condemned the findings, stating, "We have a zero tolerance for members of the crew drinking or smoking while at work. And for us to have positive tests from the captain, this is serious."

President Irfaan Ali visited survivors and their families in the hospital, offering his condolences and assurances of support. The disaster has also highlighted long-standing issues with state-run ferry terminals, where passengers had previously complained about seats being sold for cash without proper manifest recording. Officials have labeled such practices as "a criminal action."

“

It was a deeply emotional experience. I listened to their stories, shared in their pain and anxiety, and assured them that every practical measure would be taken to provide the support and assistance they need.