Guyana ferry death toll rises to 41 as more bodies are recovered

Rescuers have pulled 77 survivors from the sea while recovery efforts continue

Rescue efforts progress after MV Barima, a ferry carrying people, capsized off the coast of Guyana in South America, in this handout image released on Jul 19, 2026. Photo: Reuters

The death toll from a ferry that capsized off the coast of Guyana has risen to 41, with 14 more bodies recovered, the government said on Tuesday. The number of people who have been rescued has risen to 77, the government added.

The vessel overturned late on Saturday with 179 people on board, leaving dozens of people feared dead.

Authorities suggested that an inaccurate passenger manifest and suspected drug use by the crew may have contributed to the disaster.

The government said 16 vessels have been deployed in the wreckage area, with French and local divers leading search efforts.