Ferry capsizes off Guyana, 53 rescued so far

A distress call was received which prompted a search and rescue operation involving state and private boats, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said on Facebook.

Authorities said the vessel capsized near the Pomeroon River.

Details of the search and rescue operation were not clear, or if there were any dead, but Guyanese officials said they expected more passengers to be rescued.

Edghill said the vessel was fitted with 250 life jackets, two rigid life rafts and six inflatable life rafts.

Phillips is leading the government's response.