The Government of Guyana says search, rescue and recovery operations in the MV Barima tragedy remain ongoing, with 77 persons now accounted for as rescued and 41 bodies recovered.
In an update issued Tuesday, the Government said 16 vessels are deployed within the wreckage area as teams continue efforts to locate those still missing.
The designated search zone has also been expanded by an additional 400 square miles, extending up to Waini Point, in an effort to maximise the chances of finding any remaining persons.
According to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, as of 13:00hrs Tuesday, 77 persons had been rescued. The number of bodies recovered has risen to 41.
The Government said the first recovery for the day was made at 10:15hrs, and 14 bodies had been retrieved by 1:00 p.m. Tuesday.
French and local divers are continuing underwater search and recovery operations at the wreckage site.
Meanwhile, relatives are currently assisting with the identification of recovered bodies at the Suddie Hospital.
The Government is also advising all stakeholders involved in the operation that any bodies recovered during search and recovery efforts must be immediately transferred to the custody of the Guyana Police Force at the established facility at the Charity River Dam.
Search and recovery efforts are continuing as authorities work to account for all persons who were aboard the MV Barima.
