New Discoveries Emerge in Guyana Boat Sinking; At Least Two Dead

Rescue operations are ongoing in Guyana following the capsizing of a boat off the coast of Essequibo, a region claimed by Venezuela. While 67 individuals have been rescued, authorities are grappling with an unreliable passenger manifest, leading to uncertainty about the total number of people on board. So far, two crew members have been confirmed dead, and two others tested positive for cannabis.

"Sixty-seven people have been rescued: 41 men, 11 women, and 15 children. Among the children, six are boys and nine are girls," stated a government press release. However, the discrepancy between the reported passenger list and the actual number of individuals on board has caused significant distress. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill expressed indignation, stating, "The manifest does not accurately reflect the people on board." This suggests the number of missing persons could exceed the initial estimate of 66. Edghill urged anyone with relatives on board to contact the authorities to help establish a precise passenger count.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips has pledged a thorough investigation into all aspects of the incident, from the boat's loading to the capsizing itself. He highlighted the positive cannabis tests among the crew. Edghill further commented on the seriousness of the situation, particularly if the captain tested positive: "We have zero tolerance for crew members who drink or smoke during their service, and even more so when it comes to positive tests concerning the captain. I can understand a sailor, but not a captain. This is serious, lives are at stake, and these situations will be dealt with accordingly."

The search area has been expanded significantly, from 400 square kilometers to 1,070 square kilometers, with local fishermen assisting due to their intimate knowledge of the region. Juan Edghill suggested that a "large wave" caused the Barima to capsize. A 19-year-old survivor, Wayne Kitson, recounted that they were all asleep when the boat overturned. He described swimming in the ocean for hours before being rescued and fears his wife and daughter may have perished. The ferry had departed from the capital, Georgetown, on Saturday night.