-as operation moves into recovery phase
Prime Minister, retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, has confirmed that 53 bodies have been recovered following the MV Barima tragedy, while the number of rescued passengers has been verified at 76 as search and recovery operations continue.
During Tuesday evening’s press briefing, the Prime Minister said the figures were finalised following an ongoing verification exercise involving rescue teams and responding agencies.
With no survivors found during continued searches of the wreckage site, the operation has now transitioned from a search-and-rescue effort to a recovery mission. French and local divers remain engaged in underwater recovery efforts, while aerial surveillance has also been deployed to support the expanded search area.
Prime Minister Phillips said one body has been identified within the wreckage but has not yet been recovered.
Of the 53 bodies retrieved so far, 26 victims have been positively identified, with health officials continuing the identification process at Suddie Hospital. The Government has begun facilitating the release of identified victims to their families, with 11 bodies already repatriated to their respective communities at the request of relatives.
Regional authorities remain involved in coordinating transportation and burial arrangements, while additional repatriations will continue as more victims are formally identified.
The Prime Minister said recovery efforts remain active at the wreckage site and surrounding areas, with authorities continuing to account for all persons affected by the tragedy.