By By Elizabeth Ugbo
At least 20 people died and over 30 were injured when a Bolivian Air Force Hercules C-130 transport plane crashed near La Paz, Bolivia, on Friday evening. The aircraft, carrying newly printed banknotes, skidded off the runway at El Alto International Airport during a hailstorm with lightning, colliding with vehicles on a nearby highway.
Who Was Affected
The crash involved six crew members, two of whom remain missing, according to Air Force General Sergio Lora. Civilians on the road suffered injuries, and several vehicles were damaged when debris scattered across the highway.
Why the Money Is Controversial
The Bolivian Ministry of Defence confirmed the plane carried newly printed money without official serial numbers. Authorities stressed that collecting, possessing, or using the banknotes is illegal and constitutes a crime.
How Rescue Efforts Responded
Firefighters quickly extinguished fires caused by the crash. Meanwhile, police and military forces used water hoses and tear gas to control crowds gathering to pick up scattered cash. Footage on social media showed chaotic scenes as onlookers and looters approached the wreckage.
Weather and Cause
Cristina Choque, a local vendor, reported heavy hail and lightning when the plane went down. Defence Minister Marcelo Salinas confirmed the aircraft “landed and veered off the runway” before stopping in a nearby field. Investigators are examining the crash to determine its exact cause.
Transition Words in Action
Despite efforts to manage the crowd, looting occurred, highlighting the dangers of unsecured crash sites. Furthermore, authorities urge the public to avoid collecting the illegal banknotes.
