The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard Search and Rescue teams are actively increasing their daily sea patrols as part of a dedicated effort to locate a fishing vessel ‘ASEYAH One’ and its four-man crew, which went missing over two weeks ago.
The fishermen Worrin Yipsam, Cecil Persaud, Vickram Singh and Hazrat Razack were last seen alive on November 16, 2023, as they were heading out to sea to assist a distressed vessel.

The distressed vessel has since safely returned to port.
A press release from the GDF on Monday stated that operations have been concentrated within Guyana’s maritime space, spanning from the Demerara River to the Waini River mouth, covering the maritime boundary in the North West Region.
Vessel operations have also extended to target the shoreline within our territorial waters.

“To date, the vessel patrols have covered an extensive area, a little over 9,000 square nautical miles. Concurrently, the Coast Guard has alerted its Caribbean counterparts through the Regional Security System (RSS) to be vigilant for any possible sightings.

“In a collaborative effort, vessels operating in the region, including the Transport and Harbour Department MV Barima (North West Ferry), have been placed on high alert to keep a watchful eye for the missing vessel,” the release said.
The GDF further said that it remains dedicated to the search and rescue mission, deploying all available resources and collaborating with regional partners to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated effort. Regular updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
The release noted that in consonance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the Coast Guard’s highest priority is the safety of the crew aboard the missing vessel.