Police said 13 people were killed when the mini bus on which they were travelling plunged off a cliff into the sea in the south east area of Mount Sion, in Choiseul.

The fourteenth victim died at hospital.

Eyewitnesses said the bodies were lined up on a beach after being pulled from the wreckage. The passengers were on their way from a funeral.

Minister Mayers was informed of the accident by the chief fire officer and police commissioner while attending an election rally of the United Workers Party last night.

The National Emergency Management Organisation has cautioned residents against engaging in rumours and speculation.