At least 14 people were killed and five others injured on Saturday when a minibus lost control on a curve in the Peruvian Andes, veering off a mountain road and plunging down a steep hillside.

The incident occurred in a remote mountainous region, highlighting the dangers of transportation in the challenging terrain.

Rescue crews were deployed to the scene and used ropes to access the difficult terrain to recover the victims. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest the vehicle may have lost control on a sharp bend.

The accident underscores the persistent risks associated with road travel in many parts of Peru, particularly in its mountainous interior where roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly maintained. Such incidents often raise questions about vehicle safety and road infrastructure standards.

Minibuses are a common form of public transportation in Peru, connecting rural communities and urban centers. However, their safety record has been a recurring concern, with numerous accidents attributed to driver fatigue, speeding, and mechanical failures.

Peruvian authorities have in the past implemented measures aimed at improving road safety, including stricter regulations for public transport operators and increased patrols. Despite these efforts, the country continues to grapple with a high rate of traffic fatalities.

Further details regarding the victims and the ongoing investigation are expected to be released by local authorities in the coming days. The recovery operation was challenging due to the steepness of the slope where the vehicle fell.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the precariousness of travel in the Andes and the need for continued vigilance and improvements in transportation safety across the region.