On Monday, a Colombian military aircraft carrying soldiers and ammunition crashed shortly after takeoff in a remote area. On Wednesday, the military announced that the death toll had risen to 69 people, with an additional 57 injured. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash.
The Colombian Air Force stated that a Lockheed Martin-produced C-130 “Hercules” transport plane crashed shortly after takeoff in the southern Amazon region near the Ecuadorian border at Puerto Leguizamo, on Monday evening. The aircraft was said to be involved in troop transport and supply missions when it crashed and caught fire, leading to ammunition explosions on board.
The military aircraft was carrying a total of 126 people, including 113 soldiers, 2 police officers, and 11 crew members, according to official reports. The initial total reported by authorities was 128 individuals onboard.
This incident ranks as one of the worst air disasters in recent years in Colombia. Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez mentioned that there are no indications of an attack on the aircraft, and the cause of the accident is still under investigation.
In response to the tragic event, President Petro has issued a presidential decree on Tuesday to declare a three-day national mourning period to honor the at least 69 military and police personnel who perished in the crash. During this period, national public institutions, military and police facilities, and Colombian embassies abroad will fly flags at half-mast and observe corresponding military honors ceremonies.