RESCUERS in Guyana continued to search for survivors as authorities launched an investigation after a government ferry believed to have been overloaded capsized over the weekend. 

The government said at least 32 of the 67 people rescued were not listed on the passenger manifest.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips told reporters late Sunday that officials believe there were many more passengers than the documented 116 and 17 crew members aboard the decades-old ferry.

Mr Phillips also said the rescued captain and at least one other crew member tested positive for marijuana and remain in police custody as part of the criminal investigation.

The MV Barima capsized off the Essequibo coast late Saturday while en route from the capital, Georgetown, to Port Kaituma in north-western Guyana, near Venezuela. Only 10 bodies had been recovered by Monday.

The prime minister said the government launched an urgent and comprehensive probe, concentrating on the accuracy of the manifest, cargo loading, compliance with safety rules and the conduct of the captain and crew before sailing, among other issues.

“Let me be absolutely clear: Where negligence, misconduct or criminal wrongdoing is established, those responsible will face the full force of the law,” he said.