Local diver Archer has descended into the waters where the MV Barima sank, as search and recovery efforts intensify with support from a highly specialised 15-member dive team from the French Armed Forces in French Guiana.
The operation comes as authorities continue efforts to recover victims and account for those still missing following the ferry tragedy.
According to the latest official update, 69 passengers and crew members have been rescued, while 27 bodies have been recovered as of yesterday. Authorities have also indicated that an additional 83 persons are still missing.
The MV Barima was located on the seabed near the point where the initial distress was communicated by the Air Traffic Control tower, approximately nine miles offshore Devonshire Castle Flats.
The Government said the vessel’s position was confirmed through coordinated efforts involving local fisherfolk, ExxonMobil Guyana, VESHI and Sealand Survey’s Gilligan Island survey vessel.
The dive operation is expected to be critical in determining conditions around the sunken vessel and supporting the ongoing recovery mission.
The Government of France, through the French Armed Forces, has deployed 15 divers who have joined local dive teams at the confirmed vessel site. Additional search and dive support is also expected from Trinidad and Tobago.
Authorities have said the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre remains operational, and search and recovery efforts will continue.
The Ministry of Health and the Guyana Police Force have also established joint protocols for the processing, transportation and storage of the deceased. Family members are expected to be invited to undertake identification procedures at the Suddie Hospital.
The tragedy has plunged families across the country into grief, with several relatives still waiting for word on missing loved ones.
