At least 11 people were killed in a tragic crash involving a military plane carrying banknotes in Bolivia. The incident occurred at 18:20 local time on Friday, as the plane approached El Alto International Airport from Santa Cruz. The plane skidded off the runway, causing significant damage and hitting vehicles on a nearby motorway. The airport was temporarily closed as a result.
The Bolivian Defence Ministry confirmed the involvement of a C-130 Hercules aircraft, which was transporting banknotes to the Central Bank of Bolivia. However, they emphasized that the banknotes had no purchasing power and that any attempt to collect or use them would be considered a crime. The ministry urged the public to stay away from the crash site to allow authorities to conduct their investigation and recovery efforts.
Media reports indicate that people had approached the crash site, hoping to retrieve the banknotes. Footage from the scene shows the crashed plane and the badly damaged vehicles involved. One relative shared a harrowing account with the Reuters news agency, describing how their sister was injured when the plane's tire fell on their car, causing head trauma.
This incident raises important questions about the security and handling of sensitive cargo during air transportation. It also highlights the potential risks and consequences of such accidents, especially when valuable or sensitive items are involved.
