A fatal road accident near Naung Bo village in Thaton Township on the Yangon–Mawlamyine highway has claimed 13 lives, including eight monks, one novice, and four men, according to local rescue groups.

The crash occurred around 4 p.m. on April 18 when a passenger bus attempted to overtake another vehicle and crossed into the opposite lane, colliding head-on with a Mazda Bongo van carrying 13 monks, one novice, and six male passengers. Both vehicles veered off the road after the impact.

Nine victims—five monks, one novice, and three men—died at the scene. Several others were taken to Thaton District People’s Hospital, where additional deaths were reported later in the evening.

The victims were reportedly from Mawlamyine and had been temporarily ordained at a monastery in Thaton Township. They were returning from a pilgrimage to Kyaiktiyo Pagoda when the accident occurred.

No injuries were reported among the 30 passengers on the bus, while the bus driver has fled and is being sought by authorities. Rescue teams and social organizations assisted in transporting the injured and recovering the deceased.