Around 100 Feared Dead in Guyana Ferry Tragedy as Families Demand Answers

Families in Guyana are demanding answers after a ferry disaster that is feared to have claimed around 100 lives, making it the country's worst maritime tragedy in decades.

Authorities said 76 of the approximately 179 people believed to have been on board the MV Barima survived, while 53 bodies have been recovered. Search and rescue teams continue efforts to locate those still missing.

The ferry was travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma on Saturday when it reportedly began taking on water before capsizing off the Essequibo coast. Although the passenger manifest listed 133 people, officials now believe significantly more passengers were on board.

Survivors claimed the vessel was overloaded with passengers and cargo, including vehicles, fuel containers and commercial goods. Some also alleged the ferry experienced engine problems shortly after departure, but the crew attempted repairs at sea instead of returning to port.

Relatives of the missing have gathered in the town of Charity, anxiously awaiting news as recovery operations continue. Several survivors said they were left stranded in the water for hours before rescue teams arrived.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips has promised a full and transparent investigation, saying anyone found responsible for negligence or criminal misconduct will face legal action. Police have detained the ferry's captain and at least one crew member as part of the investigation.

Officials said a replacement ferry had already been purchased but had not yet entered service because a new docking facility at Port Kaituma was still under construction. Meanwhile, investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the disaster and whether safety regulations were violated.

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