**Guyana Recovers 27 Bodies After Ferry Disaster as Crew Faces Scrutiny**
*Georgetown, Guyana – July 21, 2026* – Authorities in Guyana have confirmed the recovery of 27 bodies following the tragic capsizing of the MV Barima ferry, which occurred off the country's coast while carrying 179 individuals. The vessel issued a distress call on Saturday night as it was transporting passengers from the capital, Georgetown, to Port Kaituma in the northwest region of the country.
As of Monday, officials reported that 69 people had been rescued, but 83 individuals remain unaccounted for, marking this incident as one of the worst maritime disasters in Guyana's history. Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill expressed deep concern over the event, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the sinking.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips has initiated an inquiry into possible negligence by the ferry’s crew leading up to the accident. Initial reports indicated that the MV Barima was carrying 116 passengers and 17 crew members; however, a troubling revelation emerged when it was discovered that 32 of the rescued individuals were not listed on the ferry's manifest. This discrepancy raises concerns about the true number of victims involved in the disaster.
In a significant development, police have detained the ferry's captain and at least one other crew member after they tested positive for marijuana. Minister Edghill emphasized the government's strict policy against substance use among crew members, stating, "We have a zero tolerance for members of the crew drinking or smoking while at work. And for us to have positive tests from the captain, this is serious."
Passengers had previously voiced concerns regarding the operations at state-run ferry terminals, alleging that officials were selling seats for cash without properly recording the actual number of passengers. Minister Edghill condemned this practice as "a criminal action," further complicating the investigation into the disaster.
In the wake of this tragedy, President Irfaan Ali visited survivors and the families of those missing in local hospitals. He described the experience as "deeply emotional" and committed to ensuring that all necessary support and assistance would be provided to those affected by the incident.
As the search for the remaining missing individuals continues, the focus remains on uncovering the factors that led to this devastating event and ensuring accountability for any negligence that may have contributed to the tragedy.