Search area widened as MV Barima recovery operation continues; death toll rises to 73

The search and recovery operation following the MV Barima disaster continued on Thursday, with authorities expanding the search area and recovering another body from inside the sunken vessel.

In a statement, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips said divers completed five dives, each lasting between 45 and 60 minutes, during the day. During one of those dives, a body was recovered from within the wreck.

The latest recovery brings the total number of bodies recovered to 73, with 69 victims positively identified.

Authorities said 63 bodies have already been released to their families, while the remaining six identified victims are expected to be transported to their home communities for burial.

The search area was widened by a further 32 square miles, stretching west to Waini Point and east to Adventure, as search teams continued efforts both at sea and around the wreck site. Aerial surveillance flights also remained part of the operation.

A total of 17 assets – including three aircraft and 14 vessels – are currently involved in the search and recovery mission.

Prime Minister Phillips said the operation remains a national priority and that personnel and resources will continue to be deployed “for as long as necessary” to ensure every possible effort is made to account for all those affected “with the utmost care, dignity and respect.”

The government said it remains committed to supporting the families of those who lost their lives and everyone affected by the tragedy.