UPDATE 3 - Minibus veers off cliff in western Turkey, 24 killed

ADDS CONDOLENCES FROM PAKISTAN, EU DELEGATION HEAD

By Durmus Genc

MUGLA, Turkey (AA) – The death toll in Saturday’s bus accident in the southwestern Turkey has risen to 24, according to a provincial governor.

The minibus veered off a cliff in Mugla province, as it was heading to Marmaris from the Buca district of the western province of Izmir for an event on Mothers' Day.

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

Cicek said the bus "most probably" suffered a brake failure and officials would look into details.

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

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in a written statement, offered condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

Pakistan was quick to extend condolences after the gruesome 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 on Saturday.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the brotherly people of Turkey, the victims of the tragic accident, and bereaved families," the statement read.

In addition, the head of EU Delegation to Turkey, Ambassador Christian Berger also issued a condolence message over the loss of lives in the incident.

"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.

All the people inside the minibus -- mostly women and children -- were tourists from within Turkey.