Zema (Sikkim)/IBNS: Sixteen soldiers, including three Indian Army officers, were killed Friday as the army truck they were travelling in fell in a gorge in North Sikkim, the Indian Army said in a statement.

The incident happened today in the morning at Zema when a three-vehicle convoy of the army was moving from Chatten towards Thangu.

“A rescue mission was immediately launched, and four injured soldiers have been air evacuated. Unfortunately, three Junior Commissioned Officers and 13 soldiers succumbed to the injuries sustained in the accident,” the Indian Army said in a statement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence minister Rajnath Singh condoled the loss of lives in the accident.

“Deeply pained by the loss of lives of the Indian Army personnel due to a road accident in North Sikkim. The nation is deeply grateful for their service and commitment. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of those who are injured,” Rajnath Singh said on Friday.