Eighteen persons were Saturday rescued and are now safe after the boat they were travelling in sunk in the Essequibo River.
The incident occurred at about 14:30 hours.
The News Room understands that the passengers departed from the Parika Stelling, East Bank Essequibo and were en-route to Supenaam, Region Two when the incident occurred.
The boat – King Kind – was captained by Anil Singh who related that water unsuspectingly started entering the boat which subsequently sunk in the vicinity of Leguan.
Singh said he took quick action and decided to steer the boat to a river bank where mangroves have been planted so that the passengers could disembark.
Another boat subsequently arrived and transported the frantic passengers to Supenaam.
On the boat were popular comedians Chris Gopaul aka Beyonce and Micheal Ignatius. They are expected to perform at a show at Washiba Resort at Capoey, Region Two.
Despite being recused, several persons reported losing their cell phones and other valuables; passengers were generally thankful for life.
A member of the Parika/Supenaam Speed Boat Association confirmed that all the passengers arrived safe but were drenched.
“It was terrifying, we just had to hold on to bushes, and our bodies were in the water, I am thankful for life but my phone is damaged,” one of the passengers who identified himself only as Narine related.
