Guyana Says Capsized Ferry Had 179 People Aboard

GUYANA – One of the survivors of a ferry that capsized in Guyana over the weekend, with as many as 179 people aboard, said she lost four of her grandchildren in the chaotic disaster and that the ship seemed to sink in an instant.

The ship’s manifest listed 116 passengers and 17 crew.

At least 69 people have been rescued after the MV Barima sank late Saturday.

27 bodies have been found so far, four of them children, but the death toll is expected to rise dramatically.

Officials have said that the rescued captain, and at least one other crew member tested positive for marijuana, and remain in police custody as part of the criminal investigation.

Guyana’s public works minister said all staff associated with the management and loading of the MV Barima have been suspended amid suspicion that they might have illegally loaded the ferry with additional people and cargo without putting them on the manifest.