A major search and rescue operation is underway after a passenger ferry carrying 116 people sank off the coast of Guyana. The distress call was received at 11:01 p.m. local time on Saturday, July 18. This was after the MV Barima encountered trouble near Iron Punt.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Authorities say 53 people have been rescued so far, while more than half of those on board remain unaccounted for.
Boat Sinks Off Guyana Coast as Rescue Effort Continues
The MV Barima was traveling from the capital city of Georgetown to Port Kaituma when it ran into difficulty. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said state agencies and privately owned boats had joined the large-scale search operation.
"There is an active search and rescue operation that is taking place, and we pray for the safety of all," he said.
Edghill added that medical teams were being sent to the area so survivors could receive treatment "as soon as they are rescued."
Prime Minister Mark Phillips said he remains hopeful that more survivors will be found as the operation continues. He confirmed that those rescued so far include both passengers and crew members.
Families Await News as Search Continues
Phillips also announced that three assistance centers had been established to support relatives of rescued passengers and those still missing. Officials said the identities of everyone on board will be released once rescue efforts and medical assessments have been completed.
Authorities expect the number of rescued passengers to increase as crews continue their search throughout the daylight hours. According to Edghill, the ferry was equipped with 250 life jackets, two life rafts, and six inflatable lifeboats.
The cause of the sinking has not yet been determined. Officials have not released details about what may have led to the emergency.
Authorities have also not confirmed whether any fatalities have been recorded as the search continues.
More information is expected as rescue crews complete their operation and investigators begin examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to VesselFinder, as reported by the BBC, the MV Barima was built in 1939. It measures approximately 131 feet in length.
