Captain and Two Crew Charged with Murder After Guyana Ferry Sinks, Killing 73

The captain and two crew members of the MV Barima, which sank in Guyana on July 18, have been charged with murder. 73 people died and 30 remain missing.

Ferry Captain and Crew Face Murder Charges After 73 Die in Guyana Disaster

Yahoo.com reports that the captain and two crew members of an overturned passenger ferry in Guyana were charged with murder on Tuesday, more than a week after the disaster claimed 73 lives and left 30 people still missing.

The 87-year-old vessel MV Barima sank near Port Kaituma, a North West village, on July 18 while travelling from Georgetown. Police identified the three defendants as Rondell Dwayne Roberts, Rondell Granderson and Delon Roberts, all charged in a Georgetown court. The three were remanded to prison, with the case adjourned until August 3. They were not required to enter a plea, and their representatives could not immediately be reached for comment.

Authorities believe 179 passengers were aboard the MV Barima when it went down. Some 76 passengers and crew members were rescued. Prime Minister Mark Phillips stated that two crew members, including the captain, tested positive for cannabis following the accident. Phillips also said that many of those on board had not been listed on the passenger manifest, and that the vessel had been certified as seaworthy and had adhered to its scheduled maintenance.

The tragedy has triggered an extensive investigation into ferry services operated by the Transport and Harbours Department, under the Ministry of Public Works. President Irfaan Ali announced the formation of 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 — Georgetown