Eleven perish when bus crashes, burns

SURABAYA, East Java: Eleven people burned to death and eight others were injured when the Kamal-Pamekasan bus they were aboard overturned and caught fire in the vicinity of Lomaer, Blegah district, along the border of Bangkalan and Sampang on Monday.

Antara said the eight survivors were being treated at the Blegah health clinic.

Witnesses said the bus overturned and slid along the road for several meters before bursting into flames upon hitting a tree by the side of the road. Those who perished were trapped inside the vehicle, while the eight survivors were thrown out when it first overturned.

Bangkalan Police chief Lt. Col. Sad Harunantyo said he suspected the accident occurred because the bus driver fell asleep. An investigation into the accident has been launched. (swe)