The Commission of Inquiry investigating the sinking of the MV Barima has commenced hearings in Port Kaituma. During the initial sessions, survivors and relatives of the victims provided distressing testimony regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. Witnesses described a situation characterized by excessive passenger numbers and improper cargo management on the vessel. Furthermore, the testimonies highlighted allegations of systemic corruption within regulatory bodies and significant delays in the emergency response efforts. These accounts suggest that operational failures and oversight lapses contributed to the severity of the tragedy. The commission continues to gather evidence to determine the factors that led to the capsizing of the ship and to evaluate the conduct of those responsible for maritime safety protocols.
Source : Kaieteur News
