Full Breakdown
Murder Charges Follow Guyana’s Deadliest Ferry Disaster
7/29/2026, 12:07:02 PM
Ferry Disaster and Murder Charges
On July 18, the 87-year-old state ferry MV Barima capsized in Atlantic waters while traveling from Georgetown to the northwestern village of Port Kaituma. Police in Guyana filed murder charges on a Tuesday against Captain Kevin Price, chief mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts, and cargo superintendent Delon Granderson. The three appeared in a Georgetown court, were remanded to prison and are scheduled to appear again on August 3. No attorneys were present and they were not required to enter pleas.
Casualties and Vessel Details
Authorities estimate that 179 people were aboard. Reports differ on the number rescued: the police statement cited 76 rescued, while another source reported 77 rescued with one later dying, and a third source noted “more than 70” deaths. The death toll is given as 73 in two accounts and as “over 70” in another. Thirty passengers remain missing. Survivors said the vessel was leaking, overloaded with passengers and cargo, and lacked a passenger manifest. The ferry lies about 50 feet (15 meters) underwater and is unlikely to be salvaged, according to the prime minister.
Government and Official Responses
Prime Minister Mark Phillips said the three men had tested positive for marijuana and that many aboard were not listed on a manifest. He also noted that the MV Barima had been deemed seaworthy and maintained a clean maintenance record. President Irfaan Ali announced the formation of a five-person commission of international legal and maritime experts to investigate the sinking. The commission is tasked with examining the alleged over-loading, leaks, and the lack of a manifest.
Political Fallout
Opposition lawmakers have demanded the resignations of Public Works Minister Juan Edghill and Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar Persaud, blaming ministry officials for the tragedy. The calls were made during parliamentary sessions following the disaster.
Next Legal Step
The murder case will be heard again on August 3 in the western Essequibo region, where the three accused remain in custody pending further proceedings.
