The Ministry of Home Affairs is warning citizens against sharing false, old or unrelated videos and photographs being linked to the deadly MV Barima tragedy, as the Guyana Police Force (GOPF) continues a comprehensive investigation into the sinking.
In a statement, the Ministry extended condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected, saying its thoughts and prayers remain with everyone impacted by the heartbreaking incident.
The Ministry said the Guyana Police Force is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and urged persons with firsthand information, photographs, videos or any other evidence to provide them directly to investigators.
“The cooperation of the public is vital to ensuring that the investigation is thorough and that all relevant facts are established,” the Ministry said.
However, the Ministry said it is deeply concerned about the circulation of old, fabricated and unrelated content on social media, which is being falsely presented as connected to the ferry sinking.
According to the Ministry, the deliberate spread of misinformation during a time of national grief is insensitive and deeply hurtful to mourning families. It also warned that false information could interfere with investigations, create unnecessary fear and mislead the public.
“Let it be clear: anyone who knowingly creates, shares, or republishes false or misleading content purporting to depict or relate to this tragedy may be committing offences under the laws of Guyana,” the Ministry warned.
The Ministry said acts of public mischief and any other applicable offences will be investigated, and where the evidence supports it, those responsible will face the full force of the law.
Citizens are being urged to act responsibly, verify information before sharing it, and allow the investigative process to continue without interference.
The Ministry said this is a time for compassion, truth and national solidarity, while calling on the public to respect the dignity of the victims and their families and refrain from contributing to the spread of false information.
