GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — Search, rescue and recovery operations following the capsizing of the MV Barima have intensified with the arrival of maritime assets and personnel from the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard and the Brazilian Navy.

The foreign teams have joined the Guyana-led operation, providing support for diving missions and other specialised recovery efforts at the site of the disaster.

Authorities say 19 vessels and three aircraft are now involved in the operation. Smaller vessels from the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard and the Maritime Administration Department have also been deployed to search inland waterways for any remaining passengers.