Gangtok, Dec 23: In a tragic road accident, 16 bravehearts of the Indian Army have lost their lives in an Army Truck accident at Zema in North Sikkim on Friday.

The ill-fated vehicle was part of a three-vehicle convoy that had moved from Chatten in the morning towards Thangu. Enroute at Zema, the vehicle skidded down a steep slope while negotiating a sharp turn.

A rescue mission was immediately launched, and four injured soldiers were air evacuated. Unfortunately, three Junior Commissioned Officers and 13 soldiers succumbed to the injuries sustained in the accident.

In a press statement, the Indian Army said it stands firm with the bereaved families at this hour of loss.