PANCHTHAR: A jeep carrying passengers to Taplejung veered off the Mechi Highway and plunged about 25 meters down a slope in Panchthar on Friday, leaving nine people injured.

The accident occurred near Chature Bazaar in Hilihang Rural Municipality-6 while the vehicle was traveling from Birtamod, Jhapa. The jeep was carrying 13 people, including the driver.

Police said the vehicle apparently went out of control before falling off the road. Of the nine injured, seven are reported to be in stable condition.