Private search for missing pilot, cargo handler continues

The search for the pilot, Nicholas Persaud, and cargo handler, David Bisnauth, continues four months after the Air Services Limited (ASL) plane went missing in Region 8.

Frank Singh, Nicholas Persaud’s father-in-law, is spearheading the private search for Persaud and Bisnauth after their plane went missing around 11.45 am on December 28, 2015, after it had taken off on a routine trip from Mahdia to Karisparu.

 Nicholas Persaud
Nicholas Persaud

The private search began on February 6, 2015, after the efforts and resources provided by ASL and the government had been exhausted. Singh explained that they are acting on information received from a miner, claiming he spotted the aircraft over the area called ‘Whitewater’.

The mission is split up into three phases. The first phase, which was completed 31 days after the search commenced, covered the area where the last spot tracker went off. Singh further explained that the area was mountainous and surrounded by a dense forest which was difficult to navigate. The search covered approximately 25 square miles.

Efforts have been made towards having the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) help pinpoint the location where Persaud’s phone last received signal, which Singh hopes would assist in having a more definite location to search.

Donations have been made by multiple persons and companies in the form of monetary contributions, equipment, and food supplies. Anyone who is willing to help and make contributions can contact Frank Singh on 624-3298.

Phase two is set to continue on April 20. The team will search more of the ‘Whitewater’ area and its surroundings.