No new developments in MV Barima recovery – Government

July 31 2026

The Government of Guyana says there are no new verified developments in the ongoing search and recovery operation following the MV Barima tragedy, as protest action continues across the country with renewed calls for the resignations of two government ministers.

In a media advisory issued earlier today, the Government said coordinated search and recovery operations remain ongoing and that no additional verified developments have emerged beyond information previously released.

The Government also noted that the Chairman and members of the Commission of Inquiry established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the MV Barima tragedy were formally sworn in on Thursday, July 30, and will now proceed independently with their mandate to examine the incident and present their findings, observations and recommendations upon completion of their work.

According to the statement, further media briefings will be held when significant and verified operational developments arise. In the meantime, updates relating to the operation will continue to be issued through official channels.

The Government reiterated its commitment to supporting affected families, maintaining the integrity of the ongoing operations and ensuring the public receives accurate and verified information.

30 persons have so far remained missing since the vessel capsized, while 79 bodies have been recovered.

Meanwhile, protest action has intensified across several parts of the country, with demonstrators renewing calls for the resignation of Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill and Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar. Protesters contend that both ministers bear ministerial responsibility for matters related to the MV Barima tragedy and are demanding political accountability.