A Colombian military Hercules C-130 aircraft crashed in southern Colombia on Monday, March 23, shortly after takeoff from the Puerto Leguízamo area in the Amazon region near the border with Peru, authorities said. The aircraft was carrying 125 people, including military personnel and crew. According to an official statement from the Ministry of Defense, 59 people have been rescued, while at least 66 others were killed. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing, and the exact cause of the crash has not yet been determined. Footage and images released from the scene show the aircraft caught fire after impact, sending thick smoke into the air. The C-130 aircraft, manufactured by U.S. company Lockheed Martin, is widely used by many countries for military transport operations. Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed concern following the incident and said he hopes rescue teams will be able to reach all passengers as quickly as possible. He added that support would be provided to the families of the victims.
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