Missing fishermen: ‘We’re hoping the crew can be found alive,’ says Mustapha

Four Guyanese fisherfolk are missing after their vessel reportedly encountered trouble in Surinamese waters, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said on Wednesday, expressing concern and optimism for their safe return.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event in Region Five, Mustapha said he is in contact with Guyana’s Ambassador to Suriname for updates.

“It is very unfortunate that four of our fisherfolk would’ve been lost at sea. Presently I don’t know what the circumstances are. I’ve spoken to our ambassador to get some more information. Hopefully, by the end of today, I can get more details,” the minister said.

According to preliminary reports, the crew had departed on a fishing trip when their vessel began taking on water. “I understand through general information that they sent out a few distress calls, and then nobody saw them afterwards,” Mustapha added.

The minister noted that while the incident occurred in Surinamese territorial waters, he was encouraged by ongoing search operations. “I’ve seen news that the Surinamese authorities have sent out their patrols and helicopters to look for these guys,” he said.

The minister stressed the importance of cross-border cooperation in maritime emergencies, saying Guyana routinely works with the Coast Guard and other agencies when fisherfolk are in distress.

“It is very unfortunate, and we are hoping that the crew can be found alive and brought back to shore safely. I’m very optimistic that can happen,” he stated.

The Ministry of Agriculture is expected to release an official statement once further details become available.