At least 15 people were killed after a Bolivian military cargo plane carrying banknotes crashed in El Alto, sparking chaos as police used tear gas to stop looting at the site.
WEBDESK – MediaBites News
At least 15 people were killed, and dozens were injured after a Bolivian air force cargo plane transporting banknotes crashed while landing in the western city of El Alto, triggering chaos at the crash site.
The C-130 Hercules aircraft went down at around 18:15 local time on Friday as it arrived from Santa Cruz, aviation officials said. The plane reportedly skidded off the runway at El Alto International Airport before slamming into nearby vehicles.
Bolivia’s defence ministry confirmed the aircraft was carrying banknotes destined for the Central Bank of Bolivia. Eight crew members, including flight and cargo personnel, were on board.
The health ministry said at least 31 people were injured and issued an urgent appeal for blood donations. Eyewitnesses described scenes of devastation, with wrecked cars and debris scattered across the area.
Video footage showed crowds gathering at the crash site, where banknotes were seen strewn across the ground. Police fired tear gas to disperse individuals allegedly attempting to seize the money.
“I want to make it clear that this money has no legal value since it has not been issued by the Central Bank and does not have a serial number,” Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas said, warning that attempting to use the notes would constitute a crime.
Journalists covering the crash were also reportedly attacked, with Bolivia’s National Association of Journalists condemning violence against media crews.
Witnesses said severe weather — including hail and lightning — may have contributed to the crash. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause.
El Alto International Airport was temporarily closed as emergency teams responded to one of Bolivia’s deadliest aviation disasters in recent years.
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