GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Monday said Coast Guard search and rescue teams were increasing their daily sea patrols in search of a fishing vessel and its four-member crew, missing for almost a month.

“Operations have been concentrated within Guyana’s maritime space, spanning from the Demerara River to the Waini River mouth, covering the maritime boundary in the North West Region. Vessel operations have also extended to target the shoreline within our territorial waters,” the GDF said as the search continues for the vessel, ASEYAH One.

The GDF said the fishing vessel was last seen on November 16, after leaving to assist a distressed vessel.

“Notably, the distressed vessel has since safely returned to port,” the GDF said, adding that its patrols have covered an extensive area, a little over 9,000 square nautical miles. The GDF said that it has also alerted its Caribbean counterparts through the Barbados-based Regional Security System (RSS) for any possible sightings.

It said vessels operating in the region, including the Transport and Harbour Department MV Barima (North West Ferry), have also been alerted to look out for the missing vessel.

The GDF said in accordance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the Coast Guard’s highest priority is the safety of the crew aboard the missing vessel and that regular updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.