Bolivian Air Force C-130 Crashes In El Alto, Resulting In 15 Fatalities While Transporting Banknotes

A Bolivian military cargo plane has crashed in El Alto, resulting in 15 fatalities, numerous injuries, and sparking unrest in the area.

On Friday evening, a tragic incident occurred in the western city of El Alto, where a Bolivian Air Force cargo plane crashed, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals and leaving many others injured.

Officials report that the C-130 Hercules aircraft crashed around 18:15 local time while approaching El Alto International Airport from Santa Cruz. Aviation officials indicate that the plane veered off the runway and collided with nearby vehicles, resulting in considerable damage.

The defense ministry of Bolivia has confirmed that the aircraft was en route to deliver banknotes to the Central Bank of Bolivia when the crash occurred. According to Air Force Commander Sergio Lora, there were eight crew members on board, which included both flight and cargo personnel.

The health ministry has reported that 31 individuals sustained injuries and has issued an urgent call for blood donations as hospitals attend to the victims. El Alto International Airport is currently closed due to the incident.

Authorities used tear gas to break up crowds reportedly trying to grab banknotes scattered at the crash site. Online video footage depicts damaged vehicles, officers establishing defensive lines, and certain individuals hurling stones.

The National Association of Journalists of Bolivia reports that multiple reporters covering the crash faced attacks. The organization asserts that stones specifically targeted a mobile television unit and inflicted injuries on other journalists.

Government-run media reports indicate the arrest of at least a dozen individuals for attempting to steal banknotes.

Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas cautions that the transported money “holds no legal value” as it has not been officially issued or assigned serial numbers. He emphasizes that trying to use the cash is a criminal act and calls on residents to honor the mourning period.

The reason for the crash is still unknown, although witnesses report that the weather conditions were severe at that moment. A resident reports that a severe hailstorm and lightning were present at the time the aircraft crashed.

An investigation is currently underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.