Russian Il-18 plane crashes in Siberia

A Russian Il-18 aircraft with nearly 40 people onboard has crashed in Bulunsky district of Siberia's Yakutia region.

"The Il-18 plane, which flew from the Koltsovo airport in Yekaterinburg, on Monday, December 19, crashed 27 kilometers from the Tiksi village," Tass news agency quoted sources, as saying.

The evacuation of victims is underway.

Local law enforcement sources were quoted, as saying that seven people have so far been sent to hospital in Tiksi village.

The crash has been confirmed by Yakutia's government.

Meanwhile, a meeting is being held by an emergency situations commission.

Further details are awaited.