GECOM vessel hits riverbank, nine rescued before boat destroyed by fire

A vessel owned by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) struck the riverbank on Sunday evening near Morawhanna in Region One, while heading to Kumaka with nine passengers onboard.

The incident occurred around 19:15 hrs under poor visibility due to rainfall.

In a press statement, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) said its Coast Guard responded promptly and evacuated the injured passengers.

They were transported to Kumaka and subsequently transferred to the Mabaruma Regional Hospital for medical attention.

At approximately 21:13 hrs, GDF said the Coast Guard, working with the Guyana Police Force, returned to the scene after receiving reports that the vessel had caught fire.

“Upon arrival, the fire had intensified and was beyond control, compounded by the vessel’s position inland from the riverbank,” GDF said.

A follow-up assessment at about 06:00 hrs on Monday confirmed that the vessel was extensively damaged by the fire, with its remains partially submerged due to high tide, GDF noted.

GDF said the Coast Guard continues to assist authorities as investigations into the incident continue.