Accident caused by drunk driver

DILI, East Timor: Provincial police chief Col. Atok Rismanto said the driver of the truck that plunged into a ravine in Ermera last Tuesday was allegedly under the influence of alcohol.

Antara quoted Rismanto as saying that the truck's brake was also faulty.

A truck overloaded with pilgrims on its way home from a Mass on Mt. Ramelau plunged into a ravine in Ermera district, killing 13 people and injuring 24 others.

"The driver was already tired, and, before driving, he drank alcohol," Rismanto said. "The brake was faulty, as well. In fact, the truck's permit expired in August last year."

Tens of thousands of Catholics from East Timor and neighboring East Nusa Tenggara climbed the mountain last week to gather for an annual Mass. (swe)