A ferry carrying more than 133 people capsized off the coast of Guyana, leaving dozens rescued while search-and-rescue operations continue for those still missing. Authorities say the vessel may have overturned after being struck by a large wave.

Rescue Operation Underway

The MV Barima capsized off the coast of Guyana while traveling from the capital, Georgetown, to Port Kaituma, prompting a large-scale search-and-rescue operation.

Guyanese Prime Minister Mark Phillips, who is leading the government's response, said 67 people, including 15 children, had been rescued by Sunday. Earlier, Phillips said 53 people had been saved, expressing confidence that more survivors would be found.

The vessel was carrying 116 passengers and 17 crew members, for a total of 133 people on board.

Distress Call and Search Efforts

A distress call was received at 11:01 p.m. local time (0301 GMT), about eight hours after the ferry departed Georgetown on Saturday afternoon.

The search operation involves government agencies as well as privately owned boats. Authorities said the ferry capsized near the Pomeroon River, along Guyana's North Atlantic coast.

Officials have not confirmed any deaths, and rescue efforts remain ongoing.

Possible Cause of the Capsize

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said initial indications suggest the aging ferry overturned after being struck by a large wave.

The MV Barima, built in 1939, was equipped with 250 life jackets, two rigid life rafts, and six inflatable life rafts, according to Edghill.

Route Through the Essequibo Region

The ferry was traveling to Port Kaituma, located inland in Guyana's oil-rich Essequibo region. The route follows the Atlantic coastline before heading upriver to reach its destination.

Essequibo, covering about 160,000 square kilometers (61,800 square miles), is at the center of a longstanding territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela.