Captain and Two Crew Charged with Murder in Guyana Ferry Disaster That Killed 73

The captain and two crew members of the MV Barima, which sank in Guyana on July 18 killing 73 people, have been charged with murder. The case was adjourned to August 3.

Murder charges filed over MV Barima sinking that left 73 dead and 30 missing

The captain and two crew members of an overturned passenger ferry in Guyana have been charged with murder, more than a week after the disaster that killed 73 people and left 30 others still unaccounted for, marinelink.com reports.

Rondell Dwayne Roberts, Rondell Granderson and Delon Roberts appeared in a Georgetown court on Tuesday following the sinking of the 87-year-old MV Barima on July 18. The vessel went down in the North West village of Port Kaituma while travelling from Georgetown. The three were remanded to prison and the case adjourned until August 3. None were required by law to enter a plea, and their representatives could not be reached for comment.

Authorities believe 179 passengers were aboard when the ferry sank. Some 76 passengers and crew members were pulled to safety. Prime Minister Mark Phillips said two crew members, including the captain, tested positive for cannabis after the accident. Phillips also noted that many passengers on board had not been listed in the manifest, and that the vessel had been considered seaworthy and had followed its scheduled maintenance.

The tragedy has triggered a broader investigation into ferry services operated by the Transport and Harbours Department, under the Ministry of Public Works. President Irfaan Ali has announced an inquiry commission into the accident.

The opposition has called for the resignation of Public Works Minister Juan Edghill and Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar.

Source: Google News GY — Crime