Families in Guyana are demanding answers and accountability after a state-run ferry, the MV Barima, sank over the weekend, resulting in an estimated 100 fatalities and making it the nation's worst maritime disaster on record. Authorities have launched an official investigation into the incident, which occurred on Saturday as the vessel traveled from the capital, Georgetown, to Port Kaituma.
As of Wednesday, search crews had recovered 65 bodies and continued to search for nearly 40 more, with assistance from naval assets from Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago. The ferry's manifest listed 116 passengers and 17 crew, but officials believe as many as 179 people may have been aboard when it began taking on water and capsized in the Atlantic off the Essequibo coast.
Families have gathered in the northern town of Charity, awaiting news and hoping for the recovery of loved ones. Samantha Ramin, who lost two of her three children, expressed her anguish, stating, "I know my baby is in that boat." Rescue efforts are ongoing, with divers searching for the remaining missing individuals.
Survivors have raised concerns about the vessel's condition and potential overloading. Some recounted spending hours in the water after the incident. Leon Murray, a survivor, told reporters that the ferry appeared heavily laden with passengers and cargo, including heavy-duty engines, vehicles, and commercial goods, noting it was "packed, packed, packed all downstairs." Survivors also reported that the ferry experienced engine problems shortly after departure but that the crew reportedly fixed them en route instead of returning to port. Some accused crew members of dismissing concerns about the vessel taking on water, saying it was "normal."
Government officials have stated that the ferry was not overloaded with passengers or cargo but acknowledged that differing accounts necessitate a thorough investigation. Maritime Agency Director Stephen Thomas indicated that officials are awaiting a comprehensive report to determine details about the vessel's loading and the role of supervisory personnel before drawing conclusions. Prime Minister Mark Phillips assured the public that those found responsible for negligence, misconduct, or criminal wrongdoing would face the full force of the law.
Authorities have detained the rescued captain and at least one other crew member, who reportedly tested positive for marijuana. Regarding the use of the 87-year-old ferry, the government explained that it was awaiting the completion of a new pier at Port Kaituma to accommodate a recently acquired vessel. The MV Barima had undergone major repairs in 2024 and was scheduled for further work in October.