Train hits minibus in eastern Turkey, killing 9

By Ramazan Kaya

ELAZIG, Turkey

Two more people were killed after a train hit a minibus at a level crossing in eastern Turkey on Monday, bringing the death toll to nine, officials said.

Speaking to reporters at the scene, Elazig Governor Murat Zorluoglu said nine people - four Syrians according to health sources - were killed and one was injured in the crash.

"A passenger train travelling between Tatvan [in eastern Van province] and Ankara hit the minibus carrying [passengers] working at a green house while it was passing the level crossing," Zorluoglu said.

The train was bound for Ankara from the eastern Bitlis province when it hit the minibus carrying a total of 10 people including Syrians in eastern province of Elazig.

"It [minibus] was dragged for about 400 meters. An investigation was launched. We had a deplorable accident," Zorluoglu said.

A minibus, which functions as a shared taxi for passengers, is a common mode of transportation in Turkey.

*Anadolu Agency Correspondent Servet Gunerigok contributed to this report from Ankara.