Location of sunken MV Barima confirmed; Recovery operation underway 

July 20 2026

The Government of Guyana has confirmed the location of the sunken MV Barima as recovery efforts intensify following the maritime disaster off the Essequibo Coast.

In a statement issued today, the Office of the Prime Minister said the vessel’s location was positively identified through coordinated efforts involving government agencies, local fisherfolk, private stakeholders and international partners.

According to the statement, the potential location of the vessel was first identified at approximately 1:31 p.m. by fisherman Haresh Singh, who had also assisted in rescue operations on Sunday.

The Government said support from local fisherfolk, along with the privately owned vessel Gilligan Island, played a significant role in confirming the vessel’s location.

Authorities have since transitioned to a full recovery operation.

The Government also announced that the French Government has provided 15 divers, who have joined local dive teams at the recovery site to assist with the operation.

Recovered bodies will be transported to Charity for processing by health and police authorities, while relatives will be invited to identify their loved ones at the Suddie Hospital.