RUKUM: At least seven people were killed on the spot when a jeep met with an accident at Jharmare in Banphikot Rural Municipality-7 of Rukum West on Friday evening.

According to police, the jeep (registration number Ra 1 Ja 422) was en route from Musikot Khalanga, the district headquarters, to Syalakhadi of Aathbiskot Municipality when it veered off the road at Jharmare, located on the border between Aathbiskot Municipality and Banphikot Rural Municipality.

Police said seven people died at the scene, while several others were injured.

Rescue efforts are underway, and police said the death toll may rise as some of the injured are in critical condition.

There were around 18 passengers in the jeep, police said.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been confirmed.