• 22 assets deployed as technical teams continue efforts to reposition vessel, recover remaining victims

THE Government of Guyana remains committed to ensuring a safe and dignified conclusion to the ongoing search-and-recovery operation following the MV Barima tragedy, as two additional bodies were recovered, bringing the total number of confirmed fatalities to 72.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, in his latest update on the operation Thursday evening, said technical teams continue to work on repositioning the vessel as part of the broader recovery efforts.

“While search-and-recovery operations remain ongoing, technical teams continue to work on repositioning the MV Barima as part of the broader recovery effort,” the Prime Minister said.

Of the 72 bodies recovered to date, 65 have been positively identified by their families, as authorities continue to support relatives affected by the tragedy and maintain efforts to account for all those who were aboard the vessel.

The Prime Minister said 22 assets remain actively involved in the operation, comprising 19 vessels and three aircraft, with aerial searches continuing across the designated search area.

The search zone covers approximately 2,100 square kilometres and extends up to Waini Point, with teams continuing to utilise available resources in the effort to locate any remaining victims.

PM Phillips also issued a warning to members of the public against operating unauthorised drones within the airspace of the search area, highlighting the potential danger such activity poses to aircraft conducting aerial searches.

“Members of the public are advised that the operation of unauthorised drones within the airspace of the search area is strictly prohibited, as they pose a significant hazard to aircraft conducting critical aerial search operations,” he said.

Against this backdrop, the Prime Minister gave the assurance that the government continues to stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and all persons affected by the tragedy, noting that every available resource remains deployed to support the ongoing operation.

“As the nation continues to mourn, the Government of Guyana remains committed to ensuring that every available resource is deployed until the operation has been brought to a safe and dignified conclusion,” Phillips said.

Meanwhile, ministers of government on Thursday joined relatives, friends and communities in Regions One, Three and Six to pay final respects to several victims of the tragedy.

He went on to add that the nation will also continue to honour those affected through reflection and prayer services, with a light of reflection and prayer scheduled for Kaituma and another planned for Mabaruma later today.