Evidence handed over as MV Barima accused trio further remanded

(Kaieteur News) – The three men facing murder charges in connection with the catastrophic July 18 sinking of the MV Barima were further remanded to prison on Monday, following state prosecutors’ confirmation that full disclosure of evidence has been handed over to the defense.

Vessel Captain Kevin Price, Chief Mate Rondell Roberts, and Goods Superintendent Delon Granderson appeared virtually before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Charity Magistrate’s Court. The court granted the defence until September 14 to review the State’s evidence and decide whether to file preliminary statements. Should they choose to do so, Magistrate Mohabir set an October 19 deadline for submission, with formal paper committal proceedings scheduled to begin on November 16.

The formal murder charges, instituted following legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), stem from one of the deadliest maritime disasters in recent memory. The vessel capsized on the night of July 18, en route to Port Kaituma, Region One from Georgetown. The tragedy claimed 73 lives, including children, while 76 survived. At least 30 individuals remain unaccounted for at sea.