MV Barima Capsizes Off Guyana Coast: At Least Two Dead and 66 Missing After Ferry Disaster
Published on 07/20/2026 at 10:47 | Redaktion boerse-global.de
Authorities in Guyana have launched a multi-agency investigation into the capsizing of the MV Barima, a passenger ferry that went down approximately seven miles off the coast on July 18, 2026. The disaster has left at least two people confirmed dead and an estimated 66 passengers missing, raising serious questions about vessel safety, crew conduct, and regulatory oversight that will resonate with maritime operators worldwide.
The vessel's captain, first engineer, and a sailor have been taken into custody after preliminary medical examinations confirmed they tested positive for cannabis following their rescue. Prime Minister Mark Phillips has announced a zero-tolerance policy for negligence in maritime operations, with the probe involving the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill described the circumstances surrounding the vessel's operation as criminal, particularly pointing to discrepancies in official documentation and personnel conduct.
Passenger Manifest Inaccuracies Hamper Rescue Efforts
Investigations into the vessel's manifest have revealed significant inaccuracies regarding the number of individuals on board. While 133 people were estimated to be on the ferry at the time of the incident, only 35 of the 67 rescued individuals were officially listed on the passenger manifest. This discrepancy has made it extremely difficult for authorities to determine the exact number of missing persons.
The MV Barima departed at 3:15 PM and issued a distress signal at approximately 11:00 PM on July 18. Initial reports indicate the vessel was carrying between 268 and 286 tonnes of cargo, with at least one report suggesting the load may have exceeded the ferry's registered capacity of 284 tonnes. Although the ferry was licensed to carry more than 300 passengers and was equipped with 250 life jackets, the manifest inaccuracies have severely complicated the search operation.
Search and Recovery Operations Expand
Search and rescue efforts have been expanded to cover an area of approximately 1,040 to 1,070 square kilometres. As of the latest updates, 67 people have been rescued, including 15 children, while two female bodies have been recovered from the water.
ExxonMobil has joined the recovery effort, providing additional vessels and specialised divers to assist local authorities. The search area was doubled in recent hours as teams continue to look for the 66 individuals still unaccounted for.
Ageing Vessel Raises Safety Concerns
The MV Barima is an 86-year-old vessel, originally built in 1939. While the ferry underwent maintenance as recently as 2024, reports indicate it was due for dry docking. Opposition figures have raised concerns regarding the age and continued use of the vessel for the route between Georgetown and Port Kaituma.
At the time of the capsizing, the ship was reportedly equipped with two lifeboats and six rafts. The investigation will continue to examine whether mechanical failure, overloading, or crew impairment served as the primary cause of the disaster.
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