Bolivia Plane Crash: 15 Dead, 30 Injured as Military Aircraft Carrying Cash Crashes Near La Paz

A cargo aircraft belonging to the Bolivian Air Force crashed shortly after takeoff near La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, resulting in at least 15 deaths and around 30 injuries. The incident occurred on Friday under adverse weather conditions. According to fire brigade officials, the aircraft skidded off the runway moments after takeoff and veered onto a nearby highway, where it collided with moving vehicles. Around 15 vehicles on the highway were reportedly damaged in the crash. Visuals circulating on social media showed wreckage scattered across the road, burnt vehicles, and bodies lying at the scene. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the deceased were onboard the aircraft or among those traveling on the road. The aircraft involved was a Hercules military plane tasked with transporting newly printed currency issued by the central bank to different cities. Following the crash, a large quantity of cash being carried by the aircraft was scattered outside the airport premises. Reports indicate that hundreds of people gathered at the site in an attempt to collect the scattered currency, leading to chaotic conditions. Police were forced to intervene using riot control equipment to disperse the crowd and restore order. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after extensive efforts. In the aftermath of the incident, authorities temporarily suspended all flight operations to and from the airport as a precautionary measure. Officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash, including whether any technical fault occurred during takeoff.