Bolivia: C-130 Crash – At Least 15 Dead

At least 15 people have died in an accident in Bolivia after a C-130 Hercules military transport plane crashed near El Alto airport, close to La Paz.

The aircraft, which was carrying banknotes, veered off the runway and crashed into cars. Fire Chief Pavel Tovar reported at least 20 injuries.

The Bolivian Civil Aviation Authority (NAABOL) announced that the aircraft, code FAB-81, had taken off from Santa Cruz. The airport was temporarily closed.

Witnesses reported bad weather conditions, with heavy hail and lightning. According to reports, a wheel from the aircraft hit a car, injuring a passenger.

Following the accident, many banknotes were scattered, causing unrest. Police intervened to prevent looting. The Ministry of Defense clarified that the banknotes have no legal value.

The La Paz prosecutor's office reported looting of shops in the area. Police have made arrests.