Bolivian Military Cargo Plane Crashes in El Alto, 15 Dead as Looting Erupts at Site

A Bolivian Air Force C-130 Hercules cargo plane crashed Friday evening in the western city of El Alto, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and 31 injuries. The aircraft, which was traveling from Santa Cruz to El Alto International Airport, reportedly skidded off the runway at 18:15 local time, striking several civilian vehicles amidst treacherous weather conditions described by witnesses as a “heavy hailstorm” with lightning.

The Ministry of Defense confirmed the flight was transporting unissued banknotes destined for the Central Bank of Bolivia. Following the impact, chaos ensued as crowds gathered at the wreckage to retrieve scattered currency. Police were forced to deploy tear gas to disperse individuals attempting to loot the site. Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas issued a stern warning, noting that the recovered banknotes hold no legal value as they lack serial numbers, and cautioned that attempting to use them constitutes a criminal offense.

The aftermath was further marred by violence against the media. The National Association of Journalists of Bolivia reported that news crews were attacked with “unusual violence” by individuals attempting to steal the money. At least a dozen arrests have been made in connection with the thefts and the assault on a mobile TV unit. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations to treat the dozens of injured survivors currently hospitalized.

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An official investigation into the cause of the crash is underway. Air Force Commander Sergio Lora confirmed that eight crew members and cargo personnel were on board at the time of the accident. El Alto International Airport remains temporarily closed as recovery teams clear the wreckage and authorities secure the perimeter.

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