At least 41 dead after ferry capsizes off Guyana

What the report says

BBC World News reported that the confirmed death toll from the capsizing of the MV Barima off Guyana has risen to 53, with 76 people rescued alive and dozens still unaccounted for as of Tuesday night, according to Prime Minister Mark Phillips. The passenger ferry overturned after leaving Georgetown on Saturday afternoon for Port Kaituma in northern Guyana, prompting a search-and-rescue effort after a distress call late Saturday night local time.

Officials said 179 people were believed to have been aboard, substantially above the 116 passengers and 17 crew recorded on the manifest. The vessel, listed as 87 years old and about 40 metres long, is now the focus of an investigation into how it capsized. Phillips said accountability would follow if negligence, misconduct or criminal wrongdoing is found.

The BBC reported that the captain and one crew member were taken into custody after officials said they tested positive for cannabis. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill described the results as serious and said authorities do not tolerate crew members using alcohol or drugs while on duty.

A survivor told local outlet Kiskadee Watch that a large wave caused the ferry to tilt and rapidly take on water. Rescue efforts have involved government teams, private boats and support from the French army in nearby French Guiana, including divers and medical personnel. At least 15 children were among those rescued, while families of the missing continued waiting for news.