Ferry MV Barima sinks off the coast of Guyana

On Saturday night, the ferry MV Barima sank off the North Atlantic coast of Guyana while en route to Port Kaituma. Reports regarding the number of people on board vary, with some government statements citing 179 total people and others stating 133, including 116 passengers and 17 crew members. A distress signal was received by an air traffic control tower at 11:01 p.m. local time. The casualty count has been subject to multiple revisions, with authorities reporting figures ranging from 27 to 53 confirmed deaths. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with survivor numbers estimated between 67 and 77, while dozens remain missing. Prime Minister Mark Phillips confirmed the continuation of rescue efforts. Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar announced the establishment of assistance centers to support the families of those affected.