Colombian Military Plane Crashes in Amazon, Casualties Reported
Puerto Leguizamo, Colombia – A Colombian military cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff Monday in the remote Amazonian province of Putumayo, resulting in an undetermined number of casualties, officials said. The Hercules C-130 aircraft reportedly carried 110 soldiers, though the exact number of personnel aboard has not been officially confirmed.
Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the “tragic accident” on X, stating that all protocols to assist victims and their families have been activated, alongside a full investigation. “I express my deepest condolences to the families of those affected and, out of respect for their grief, I urge everyone to avoid speculation until official information is available,” Sánchez wrote.
The crash occurred near Puerto Leguizamo, a municipality bordering Peru and Ecuador. Witnesses reported seeing a large cloud of dark grey smoke rising from the crash site just minutes after the plane departed, seemingly en route to Puerto Asis. Shocking footage circulating on social media appears to show the aftermath of the incident, with onlookers rushing towards the scene.
As of Monday afternoon, authorities confirmed that 20 people had been located following the crash, with rescue teams continuing to search the area. Colonel Zambrano of the Putumayo Police told local media outlet El Tiempo that injured individuals were being transported to local health centers. “There are several injured; they are being evacuated to the health centre,” he said.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. This incident underscores the challenges of military operations in the geographically complex Amazon region, where air transport is often crucial for reaching remote areas. The Colombian military frequently utilizes Hercules C-130 aircraft for troop transport and logistical support throughout the country.