–73 bodies recovered thus far; divers prepare vessel for possible righting operation
–PM reaffirms search will continue until every effort is exhausted
THE search-and-recovery operation entered a critical new phase with considerations to possibly have a righting operation for the MV Barima, as the government reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the process until every effort has been exhausted.
This was disclosed by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips at a press conference, during which he indicated that search-and-recovery teams remain fully engaged across an expanded search area, while specialised diving operations continue at the wreckage site.
“The coordinated search-and-rescue operation remained active throughout the day. The dedicated teams continued their efforts in the extended search area and at the wreckage site as we continue to deploy every available effort toward the ongoing operation,” the Prime Minister said.
The designated search area has been expanded by an additional 32 square miles, stretching west to Waini Point and east to Adventure, while aerial-surveillance flights continue to support maritime search teams.
Prime Minister Phillips reported that five dives, each lasting between 45 and 60 minutes, were completed on Friday. During one of those dives, recovery teams located and retrieved one additional body from the vessel.
This latest recovery brings the death toll to 73, of whom 69 have been positively identified. Sixty-three bodies have already been released to their families, while six others are expected to be transported to their respective communities for burial.
The Prime Minister also noted that 22 funerals had been completed as of Friday.
A total of 17 assets, comprising three aircraft and 14 maritime vessels, remain deployed as part of the operation.
“Search-and-recovery operations remain a national priority, with personnel and resources fully committed to the effort. These operations will continue for as long as necessary to ensure that every possible effort is made to account for those affected with the utmost care, dignity and respect,” Phillips said.
The Prime Minister disclosed that Friday’s diving operations served a dual purpose, continuing the search within the vessel while also preparing it for a possible righting operation.
He said that no attempt has yet been made to move the vessel, which remains lying on its side beneath the water.
“The whole diving operation today was perhaps in preparation for any effort to move the vessel and also to search the vessel,” Phillips said.
Boats have already been positioned at the site and remain on standby, should authorities decide to proceed with righting the ferry.
According to the Prime Minister, divers continue to contend with challenging underwater conditions, including strong currents and poor visibility caused by murky, muddy water.
Despite those challenges, he expressed confidence in the expertise of the dive teams, noting that they will determine when conditions are safe to continue operations.
While divers did not report seeing additional bodies during Friday’s dives, Phillips said preparations which include removing tarpaulins from the vessel’s side to improve access, could make subsequent searches more effective.
He added that righting the vessel may also assist recovery teams in locating any remaining victims trapped inside.
The Prime Minister reiterated that while search-and-recovery operations remain the immediate priority, preparations are also advancing for an independent Commission of Inquiry into the tragedy.
He said the government remains committed to establishing the inquiry at the earliest possible opportunity, once the emergency response enters its next phase.
“There is a process that has to start immediately as we ease out of this current operation,” Phillips said, noting that work is already underway to develop terms of reference and identify individuals to serve on the commission.
Against this backdrop, the Prime Minister added that the government is prepared to seek assistance from international maritime agencies if such support would strengthen public confidence in the inquiry.
“If contacting the International Maritime Organization will help in this inquiry, we will do it. We will contact all the agencies that will help in ensuring that the Guyanese people view this inquiry as an independent inquiry,” he said.
Meanwhile, Phillips said support for grieving families remains central to the government’s response, with ministers continuing to work directly with affected communities and attend funeral services.
He stressed that burial arrangements are being carried out in accordance with the wishes and religious customs of each family to ensure loved ones are laid to rest with dignity.
