The death toll from the MV Barima ferry tragedy in Guyana has climbed to 65 as recovery efforts continue. Regional support has expanded with the arrival of teams from the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard and the Brazilian Navy.

The foreign crews have joined Guyanese authorities to assist with diving operations and other specialised recovery work. Officials said 19 vessels and three aircraft are now taking part in the operation. Smaller boats continue searching rivers and inland waterways for anyone still missing.

Engineers are also preparing to refloat the overturned ferry. They will first reposition the vessel before attaching salvage airbags to lift it. Crews will then tow it closer to shore so divers can safely continue the search inside.

Authorities recovered three more bodies since the last official update. That raised the total death toll to 65. Families have identified 44 victims, and officials have released 23 bodies for burial. The number of survivors remains 76. Health officials continue helping families identify loved ones and complete burial arrangements.

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has declared three days of national mourning. Flags are flying at half-mast across the country. Hundreds of people also attended a National Interfaith Prayer Service in Georgetown to honour the victims and support grieving families.

Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips called the disaster one of the darkest moments in Guyana’s recent history. He thanked emergency responders, divers, medical workers, fishermen, volunteers and private sector partners for their commitment throughout the recovery effort.

The Government has scheduled additional memorial services in Port Kaituma and Mabaruma. Officials said they will continue using every available resource until the recovery operation is complete. Support services also remain available for affected families.