The aircraft went down shortly after departing from Puerto Leguizamo, close to Colombia’s southern border with Ecuador. The country’s defense minister indicated that a high number of casualties are feared.
Colombia’s military stated today that approximately 80 soldiers are feared dead following a transport plane crash in the southern part of the country.
Citing a military source, the news agency AFP reported that there were at least two platoons on board the aircraft. The plane involved was a C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft.
The aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from Puerto Leguízamo, near Colombia’s southern border with Ecuador. Colombia’s defense minister stated that a significant loss of life is feared.
The state broadcaster RCN aired footage showing the badly damaged fuselage engulfed in flames within the jungle terrain. This type of aircraft typically has the capacity to carry around 100 soldiers.
The defense minister posted on social media: “Military units are already on the scene. However, the exact death toll and the causes of the crash have not yet been confirmed.”
“This is a deeply tragic incident for the country. May our prayers offer some measure of solace.”
According to information provided by news agencies