…large search party mobilized
A search and rescue team up to late last night was searching for two young men who went missing after going for a swim at the Unity Beach, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara.
Missing are Navin Seenauth, 20, and Daniel Boodram, 17, both residents of Unity Village.
According to a satement from the Ministry of Home Affairs Seenauth, Boodram, and another friend, Joshua Deonarine, a 17-year-old from the same village, went swimming at the Unity beach.
Deonarine, according to the statement, indicated that the water was inshore with heavy waves upon their arrival. However, despite the conditions, the youths proceeded to swim. Deonarine, who cannot swim, said he exited the water after approximately half an hour since the water was about chest-high.
The ministry further stated that the young man said after getting dressed, he noticed his friends were no longer visible in the water. He searched for them but to no avail and subsequently returned to the village to raise an alarm.
A search party was then formed to locate the missing youths and was ongoing up to last evening.
The Guyana Police Force was on-site conducting an investigation, and the Coast Guard was also expected to be deployed at first light to assist in the search efforts.
“Authorities urge anyone with information which could assist in locating the missing youths to come forward. The community’s support and cooperation are not just important, but also greatly appreciated during this critical time,” the statement said.
Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn was also on site last night to lend support.
