Seven die, eight hurt in road accident

SALATIGA, Central Java: Seven people died and eight sustained severe injuries in an accident involving a truck, a public transport vehicle, a motorcycle and a pedicab in Salatiga on Sunday.

Antara reported Monday that the victims were Dwi Anggraini, 26; Tukiyem, 66; Basuki Raharjo; Slamet, 38; Parjan; Rakini, 68; Kasiyem, 78 and Laseman.

Salatiga Police chief Lt. Col. Beno Killapong said the driver of a truck driving at high speeds from the direction of Solo suddenly lost control of his vehicle.

The truck hit a motorcycle, a public transport vehicle and an electric pole before driving through a red traffic light.

Witnesses and police believe the brakes of the truck may have failed.