At least 15 people were killed when a military cargo plane crashed near La Paz, Bolivia, on Friday. The C-130 Hercules, which was transporting new banknotes from the central bank, skidded off the runway at El Alto International Airport, leading to significant damage on a nearby highway and scattering cash across the area.

Crash Details
The C-130 Hercules, belonging to the Bolivian Air Force, crashed while attempting to land at El Alto International Airport after departing from Santa Cruz. According to Bolivian Air Navigation and Airports authority (NAABOL), the aircraft veered off the runway and skidded along an avenue before coming to rest in a field. Local fire chief Pavel Tovar confirmed that debris from the aircraft and damaged vehicles littered the road, with at least 15 vehicles involved in the incident.

Casualties and Injuries
While Tovar did not specify whether the fatalities were from the aircraft or the vehicles on the highway, he confirmed that several people were injured. Bolivian Air Force Gen. Sergio Lora reported that two of the six crew members had not been located by late Friday. Firefighters were able to extinguish the flames engulfing the aircraft.

Public Reaction
Footage from local media captured chaotic scenes as bystanders rushed to collect the scattered banknotes while police in riot gear attempted to disperse the crowd using tear gas. The incident drew significant attention, with many people eager to retrieve the money scattered across the crash site.

Official Response
The Bolivian Ministry of Defence confirmed the crash but did not provide additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. The crash has led to the suspension of operations at El Alto International Airport as investigations into the cause of the accident begin.

Wrap-up
The crash of the C-130 Hercules has not only resulted in tragic loss of life but has also raised questions about air safety and the handling of military cargo in Bolivia. The incident underscores the potential dangers associated with transporting large amounts of cash and the need for rigorous safety protocols in military operations.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team