–As crew members test positive for cannabis

The Government of Guyana has ordered an urgent and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the capsizing of the MV Barima after authorities discovered that several rescued passengers were not listed on the vessel’s official manifest and two rescued crew members tested positive for cannabis during medical examinations.

Speaking during a national update on Sunday evening, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips described the developments as “deeply concerning and shocking.”

He said the investigation has already commenced and will involve the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), and other technical maritime experts.

According to the Prime Minister, investigators will examine all aspects of the incident, including the accuracy of the passenger manifest, the loading of passengers and cargo, compliance with maritime safety regulations, and the conduct of the captain and crew before and during the voyage.

Phillips warned that anyone found to have acted negligently or engaged in misconduct or criminal wrongdoing would be held accountable.

“There will be no exemptions and no tolerance for actions that place innocent lives at risk,” he said.

The government also announced that it will release the vessel’s passenger manifest, along with the names of those rescued and those who remain unaccounted for. Officials said the lists will continue to be updated as verification efforts continue.

Extending condolences to the affected families, the Prime Minister assured them that the government would continue to provide support throughout the ordeal.

He added that search and rescue operations remain ongoing, with every available resource deployed to locate those still missing.
Phillips also disclosed that President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who was on an official visit to Canada, cut short his engagements after being briefed on the tragedy and is expected to return to Guyana by 11:30 p.m. Sunday. The President has been fully updated on the situation and has already spoken with the vessel’s captain.

The investigation comes as authorities continue efforts to determine exactly what led to one of the worst maritime disasters in recent years.