The number of bodies recovered from the MV Barima disaster has risen to 57, of which 44 have been positively identified, the Government said on Wednesday, as international support vessels arrived to reinforce the search and recovery operation.

Four additional bodies were recovered as of 1pm on Wednesday, the Government said, adding that 18 of those positively identified have so far been released to their families.

The Government continues to lead an extensive multi-agency and international response following the sinking of the ferry.
Support assets from the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard and the Brazilian Navy have arrived in Guyana and are en route to support the ongoing search, rescue and recovery operations, with 19 vessels and two aircraft now involved.

Technical teams are conducting detailed assessments of the capsized vessel to develop the safest and most effective plan for righting it, in order to improve access for on-site diving teams.

Regional authorities and the Ministry of Health continue to work with bereaved families to facilitate arrangements for the release of bodies for funeral rites and burial