By Swift Reporter
A Bolivian Air Force transport plane carrying newly printed banknotes crashed while attempting to land at El Alto International Airport, killing at least 20 people and injuring dozens in a chaotic scene that saw crowds scrambling for scattered bills.
The C-130 Hercules aircraft went off the runway around 6:15 p.m. local time on the 27th and veered onto a nearby road during landing. Initial reports listed 15 deaths, but authorities later confirmed 20 fatalities. Bolivia’s Health Ministry reported 31 people injured, while about 10 vehicles on a nearby highway were damaged, and some victims were reportedly on the ground at the time of the crash.
“The plane had eight people on board, including cargo personnel and flight attendants,” said the Bolivian Air Force. “It was transporting new banknotes to the Central Bank of Bolivia.”
The impact scattered bundles of cash across the surrounding roads, drawing hundreds of people who tried to collect the bills. Authorities struggled to maintain order as some individuals resisted, throwing stones at police and soldiers. Tear gas was deployed to disperse the crowd, and at least 12 people were arrested for attempted theft. Over 500 soldiers and 100 police officers were eventually deployed to secure the area.
Local media reported attacks on journalists covering the crash. The Bolivian Journalists Association stated that reporters were targeted and seriously injured by stones thrown by those attempting to seize the cash.
Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas emphasized that the scattered banknotes held no legal value. “The notes have not yet been issued by the Central Bank and do not have an official serial number, so they have no legal value,” he said. “Any attempt to take or use this money is a criminal act. Those who engage in looting and vandalism at this moment of tragedy should stop immediately and respect the time of mourning.”
Military and police personnel were also seen destroying cash boxes at the scene to prevent further looting.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Witnesses reported “dangerous weather with heavy rain, hail, and lightning” at the time of the accident. Authorities have temporarily closed El Alto International Airport while the investigation continues.
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