The five-member Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy on Friday visited two dry docks along the East Bank of Demerara as part of its ongoing efforts to gather information ahead of the formal hearings.
The two facilities were reportedly involved in the maintenance and repair of the MV Barima at various times before the July 18, 2026 tragedy. The visits allowed commissioners to familiarise themselves with the sites as they prepare for the commencement of oral hearings on October 14.
Friday’s inspections followed visits on Thursday to the Transport and Harbours Department’s Goods Wharf in Kingston, Georgetown, as well as the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) and the Transport and Harbours Department.
The site visits form part of the Commission’s preliminary fact-finding process, aimed at giving members a better understanding of the facilities, operations and circumstances relevant to the investigation into the MV Barima tragedy.
The passenger and cargo ferry had departed the Kingston Goods Wharf in Georgetown at about 15:15h on its scheduled journey to Port Kaituma in the North West District.
However, at about 23:01h, the vessel transmitted a distress signal after encountering difficulties off the Essequibo Coast near the mouth of the Pomeroon River.
A total of 179 persons, including 18 crew members, were onboard. The disaster claimed 73 lives, while 76 persons survived, and approximately 30 remain unaccounted for.
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