At least 15 killed after military plane carrying banknotes crashes in Bolivia

At least 15 people have died and several others were hurt when a Bolivian military cargo plane crashed in El Alto, according to local officials. The crash occurred at 6:15 PM local time (10:15 PM GMT) on Friday as the aircraft was approaching the airport in El Alto, coming from Santa Cruz. Reports indicate that the plane skidded off the runway and collided with vehicles nearby. The defense ministry later confirmed that the C-130 Hercules was involved and that it was carrying banknotes meant for the Central Bank of Bolivia. They did not disclose the number of people on board or the total casualties. Police used tear gas to control crowds reportedly trying to grab the scattered money. Video clips showed the damaged plane and wrecked vehicles. Other footage showed people fleeing from the tear gas, while police, some with shields, formed a line. Some individuals in the crowd were seen throwing rocks. The National Association of Journalists of Bolivia stated that while news teams were covering the crash, those trying to steal the money violently attacked the reporters. They noted that a mobile TV unit was specifically targeted, and other journalists were injured by stones while doing their jobs. The state-run Bolivian News Agency reported that at least twelve people were arrested for attempting to steal banknotes. Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas emphasized that the money from the plane has no legal value since it was not issued by the Central Bank and lacks serial numbers, warning that using this money is a crime.