The Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard has responded to a riverine incident in the vicinity of Morawhanna, Region One, after a vessel owned by the Guyana Elections Commission ran aground and subsequently caught fire, leaving it extensively damaged.
The incident occurred on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at approximately 19:15 hours. The vessel, which was carrying nine passengers en route to Kumaka, ran aground along the riverbank under conditions of reduced visibility due to rainfall.
The Coast Guard responded promptly, assisting in the evacuation of injured passengers, who were transported to Kumaka and subsequently transferred to the Mabaruma Regional Hospital for medical attention.
At approximately 21:13 hours, the Coast Guard, in coordination with the Guyana Police Force, returned to the scene after receiving reports that the vessel had caught fire. Upon arrival, the blaze had intensified beyond control, a situation compounded by the vessel’s position inland from the riverbank, which hampered firefighting efforts.
A follow-up assessment conducted at approximately 06:00 hours on April 20, 2026, confirmed that the vessel had been extensively damaged by fire, with its remains partially submerged due to high tide conditions.
The Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard said it continues to support the relevant authorities as investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
