A massive search and rescue operation saved 67 people after the MV Barima ferry capsized off the Essequibo Coast late Saturday night, July 18, 2026, after being struck by a large wave, according to Public Works Minister Juan Edghill.
The vessel carried 116 passengers and 17 crew members when the incident occurred. Those rescued so far include several crew members and 15 children.
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Authorities first received a distress signal at 11 p. m.
Saturday.
Emergency teams expanded search efforts during daylight hours, deploying the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration Department, and private assets including an OMNI helicopter equipped with rescue swimmers.
Emergency response operations centers were set up in Regions Two and Three by the Ministry of Health to treat rescued individuals.
Government officials stated that the identities of the survivors will not be released immediately.
Minister Addresses Preliminary Findings
Minister Edghill addressed family members regarding the preliminary findings behind the vessel's sudden capsizing.
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"From what we're hearing, they hit a big wave. It was a big wave that canted the Barima.
Preliminarily, that's what we're hearing from everybody who we have spoken to," said Juan Edghill.
Edghill spoke to relatives of Richard Moe, a 55-year-old crew member who has served with the Transport and Harbours Department since age 14.
An investigation will officially determine the precise cause of the accident.
"Everybody said it was so sudden," Edghill noted, advising caution regarding unverified details due to poor mobile signal coverage in the search area.
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Built in Scotland during the 1930s, the historic MV Barima periodically undergoes rehabilitation to maintain ocean passage to the riverain community of Port Kaituma.
