Four die in accidents

PADANG, West Sumatra: A truck carrying 60 people overturned on the trans-Sumatra highway in Sinyamak village, Sawahlunto regency, Wednesday, killing five people and injuring 28 others.

Sawahlunto Police Precinct Chief Lt. Col. Ichlas Yusuf told reporters yesterday that the driver, Amrizal, escaped unhurt.

The truck had reportedly been speeding and Amrizal lost control of the vehicle after he tried to avoid a car traveling in the opposite direction.

Those who died were Riris, aged 17, Nora, 16, Memen, 3, Erni, 17, and Zulfikar, also 17.

Ichlas Yusuf said trucks carrying passengers were not allowed on the trans-Sumatra road. Amrizal's truck, however, passed check points because the 60 passengers were apparently hidden from sight under some coverings.

The passengers were Idul Fitri holidaymakers from Koto Baru on their way to Pariaman. (32)