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Fatal crash during banknote transport
At least 15 people died and 31 were injured when a Bolivian air force C-130 Hercules cargo plane crashed while landing at El Alto International Airport on Friday evening, authorities confirmed.
Sequence of events
The aircraft, arriving from Santa Cruz at 18:15 local time (22:15 GMT), veered off the runway and collided with nearby vehicles. The plane was carrying banknotes destined for the Central Bank of Bolivia, according to the defence ministry.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as crowds attempted to seize scattered cash. Police responded by firing tear gas to disperse the mob, while some individuals hurled rocks at officers.
Violence against journalists
The National Association of Journalists of Bolivia reported that news crews covering the incident were attacked by individuals trying to steal the money. A mobile television unit was targeted, and several reporters sustained injuries from thrown stones.
"Journalists were attacked with unusual violence while performing their duties," the association stated.
Government response
Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas warned that the recovered banknotes were invalid, lacking serial numbers and Central Bank authorization. He urged the public to refrain from vandalism and respect the national mourning period.
At least 12 people were arrested for attempting to steal the currency, the Bolivian News Agency reported.
Casualties and aftermath
Air Force Commander Sergio Lora confirmed eight crew members-including flight and cargo personnel-were aboard the aircraft. The health ministry issued an urgent appeal for blood donations following the incident.
A witness told Reuters that a relative was injured when the plane's tire struck her vehicle. El Alto International Airport was temporarily closed as investigators began examining the crash site.
Possible causes
While the exact cause remains undetermined, witnesses described hazardous weather conditions at the time of the crash. A woman whose car was hit by wreckage told AFP that a severe hailstorm and lightning were present during the incident.
