16 Army soldiers killed, 4 injured in road accident in Sikkim

Sixteen Army soldiers were killed and four others injured after their vehicle met with an accident near North Sikkim.

The accident took place at Zema in North Sikkim.

By Manjeet Negi: Sixteen Army soldiers were killed and four others injured after their vehicle skidded down a steep slope near North Sikkim on Friday.

The vehicle was part of a three-vehicle convoy that had moved from Chatten in the morning towards Thangu. Enroute at Zema, the vehicle met with an accident.

“A rescue mission was immediately launched, and four injured soldiers have been air evacuated. Unfortunately, three Junior Commissioned Officers and 13 soldiers succumbed to the injuries sustained in the accident,” the Indian Army said in a statement.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh condoled the loss of lives in the accident.

“Deeply pained by the loss of lives of the Indian Army personnel due to a road accident in North Sikkim. The nation is deeply grateful for their service and commitment. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of those who are injured,” Rajnath Singh said on Friday.