By: The Trek News Desk
At least 11 people were killed after a military cargo aircraft crashed in western Bolivia on Friday evening. The accident occurred in the city of El Alto, leaving around 20 others injured, according to local fire department sources cited by regional media.
Officials reported that the incident took place at approximately 6:15 p.m. local time as the Bolivian Air Force C-130 Hercules was preparing to land at El Alto International Airport. The aircraft had departed from Santa Cruz and was on final approach when it reportedly skidded off the runway, colliding with several nearby vehicles.
The impact caused significant damage to the ground and triggered panic in the surrounding area.
Bolivia’s Defence Ministry later confirmed that the aircraft involved was a C-130 Hercules assigned to transport banknotes for the Central Bank of Bolivia. However, officials did not disclose how many personnel were on board or release an official casualty breakdown.
In the aftermath of the crash, scattered banknotes from the aircraft drew large crowds to the site. Authorities used tear gas to disperse individuals attempting to collect the currency. Video footage circulating online showed police officers forming barricades with shields while some people reportedly threw stones during the unrest.
Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas clarified that the banknotes carried by the aircraft held no legal value, as they had not yet been officially issued by the central bank and lacked serial numbers. He warned that attempting to use the currency would be considered a criminal offence and urged the public to respect the mourning period.
Emergency responders at the scene confirmed that at least 20 people sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals. One eyewitness told media outlets that a tyre from the aircraft struck his sister’s car, causing a serious head injury.
Another witness described harsh weather conditions at the time of the accident, including heavy hail and lightning. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the crash, but investigations are currently underway.
Following the crash, operations at El Alto International Airport were temporarily suspended. Aviation authorities stated that a technical team has launched a full investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Rescue and recovery efforts remain ongoing as security has been tightened across the affected area.
Source: News Agencies
