The search for the Britten Norman Islander that went missing shortly after takeoff last week Sunday continued yesterday in Mahdia, Region 7, with teams conducting ground searches.
A 26-member group was dispatched via helicopter into an area deemed to be of high interest that is bordered by the North Fork and Blackwater rivers. The area was determined based on reports of sightings in an area above the highest peak, east of Deer Creek. This area is approximately 10 miles southwest of Mahdia.
The group, consisting of persons from the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Special Forces and line cutters from St Cuthbert’s Mission commenced their ground searches early yesterday morning in hopes of making a discovery after days of unsuccessful searching.
According to the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), standard three-man teams from the GDF and GFC mapped a route to thoroughly search for the aircraft and its occupants, pilot Nicky Persaud, 28, and loader David Bisnauth, 51. GCAA further said that the teams had been equipped with modern communication equipment such as handheld radios, global positioning instruments, and satellite telephones which enabled them to remain in regular contact with the Rescue Coordination sub-Centre in Mahdia.
Furthermore, aerial searches continued with two helicopters along with two fixed-wing aircraft. These searches were conducted not only in the area of high interest but also along the previously decided grids prepared by the Rescue Coordination Centre, Timehri Control Tower.
Despite its high intensity, the searches proved futile and had to be discontinued at around 4.30 pm due to inclement weather. The searches will continued today at first light, the GCCA said.
When contacted, Director of the GCCA Zulficar Mohamed stated that the same members will continue the search tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Bisnauth’s family is determined to remain positive with one relative even participating in yesterday’s search. Carol, the man’s sister, told Stabroek News, “We’re hoping that they’re both doing well. I still got my fingers crossed that they’ll find them and bring them out.”
