Fifteen individuals have been confirmed dead, with numerous others suffering injuries, following the crash of a Bolivian Air Force cargo aircraft in the city of El Alto on Friday evening.
Officials stated that the C-130 Hercules aircraft experienced a crash at approximately 18:15 local time as it approached El Alto International Airport from Santa Cruz. According to aviation authorities, the plane veered off the runway before impacting nearby vehicles, causing substantial damage.
The Bolivian Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the aircraft was in the process of transporting banknotes intended for the Central Bank of Bolivia when the accident occurred. Air Force Commander Sergio Lora indicated that eight crew members, comprising flight and cargo staff, were aboard the flight.
The Ministry of Health has reported that 31 people were injured and has issued an urgent call for blood donations to support hospitals treating the victims. El Alto International Airport has been temporarily closed as a result of the incident.
Police deployed tear gas to control crowds who allegedly attempted to collect scattered banknotes from the crash site. Online videos have shown damaged vehicles, police securing perimeters, and some individuals throwing stones.
The National Association of Journalists of Bolivia reported that several journalists covering the crash faced attacks. The organization stated that a mobile television unit was specifically targeted, and other reporters sustained injuries from thrown stones.
State-run media outlets have reported the arrest of at least a dozen individuals suspected of attempting to steal the banknotes.
Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas cautioned that the money being transported "has no legal value" as it had not been officially issued or assigned serial numbers. He emphasized that any attempt to use this currency is a criminal offense and urged the public to observe a period of mourning.
The precise cause of the crash remains undetermined, although eyewitnesses have reported challenging weather conditions at the time. One resident recounted experiencing a severe hailstorm and lightning as the aircraft crashed.
An investigation has been launched to ascertain the circumstances that led to the fatal crash.
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