The body of Alisher Mirzonabot, the head of Tajikistan's Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO), has been recovered from the Panj River, The Caspian Post reports, citing Asia-Plus news agency.

According to the agency, the bodies of Mirzonabot and his driver, Sino Muborkashoev, were found approximately 20 kilometers from the location where their official vehicle plunged into the river.

The deceased was identified by his relatives, although authorities said the final confirmation of his identity will be made after the completion of a forensic examination.

Meanwhile, search operations are continuing for the other passengers who were traveling in the vehicle with the regional governor at the time of the incident.