Member of the Media, Fellow Guyanese,
The coordinated search and recovery operation remained active throughout the day, with dedicated teams continuing their efforts in the extended search area and at the wreckage site as we continue to deploy every available effort toward the ongoing operation. The designated search area was expanded by an additional 32 square miles – westwards to Waini Point and eastwards to Adventure. Aerial surveillance flights also continued to support the extensive search operation.
Diving operations continued today, with five dives completed, each lasting between 45 to 60 minutes.
During one of these dives, a body was recovered from within the MV Barima vessel.
This brings the total number of bodies recovered to 73, of whom 69 have been positively identified.
63 bodies have since been released to their families, while the remaining six identified bodies are scheduled to be taken to their respective communities, where they will be laid to rest by their loved ones.
A total of 17 assets, comprising three aircraft and 14 vessels, remain actively engaged in the search and recovery operation.
Search and recovery operations remain a national priority, with personnel and resources fully committed to the effort. These operations will continue for as long as necessary to ensure that every possible effort is made to account for all persons affected with the utmost care, dignity, and respect.
A Night of Reflection and Prayer will be held in Mabaruma on Friday, 24 July 2026, as the nation continues to mourn those who lost their lives in this tragedy.
The Government of Guyana continues to stand with the families of those who have lost their lives and with all persons affected by this tragedy.