Minibus owner remanded in deadly crash in Turkey

By Durmus Genc

MUGLA, Turkey (AA) - The owner of the minibus responsible for the deaths of 24 people in a crash in southwestern Turkey was remanded in custody, according to security sources.

The minibus veered off a cliff Saturday in Mugla province, while headed to a Mother’s Day event in Marmaris from the Buca district of the western province of Izmir.

According to the security sources who asked not to be named due to restrictions on talking to the media said the owner of the minibus who is identified as Bulent C. was remanded into custody Saturday on charges of "causing the death of more than one with reckless homicide.

"According to our latest assessment, 24 people lost their lives and 10 others were injured in the incident," Mugla Gov. Amir Cicek said at a press conference.

Cicek said the bus "most probably" suffered a brake failure and officials would investigate.

The accident took place on Sakargecidi pass on Mugla-Antalya road.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured.

Pakistan quickly extended condolences after the accident.

"The government and people of Pakistan convey their profound sympathies and condolences over the loss of precious lives and pray for the swiftest recovery of those injured," said a statement from the foreign ministry. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the brotherly people of Turkey, the victims of the tragic accident, and bereaved families,".

In addition, the head of the EU Delegation to Turkey Ambassador Christian Berger also offered condolences.

"I am extending mine and the entire delegation's heartfelt condolences for the loss of lives in this tragic accident and wish a speedy recovery to those injured," he said in a statement.

The minibus’ passengers, mostly women and children, were all tourists from Turkey.