A Bolivian military cargo plane, the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, crashed onto a busy highway near El Alto, the administrative capital, on Friday while trying to land in poor weather conditions. The plane, operated by the Bolivian Air Force, was believed to be transporting freshly printed money from the central bank to various cities across the country. Witnesses reported that the aircraft lost control and veered off the runway, striking several vehicles as it descended.

The aftermath of the crash was chaotic, with scenes of panic as banknotes filled the area surrounding the wreckage. Emergency responders reported at least 15 people dead and around 30 others injured. The collision not only caused significant casualties but also damaged a dozen vehicles, with debris from the plane spread across the roadway and a nearby field, highlighting the severity of the incident.

This incident raises questions about the safety protocols in place for transporting cash via air and the conditions under which such flights are conducted. The Bolivian government will face scrutiny over its air safety measures, especially given the sensitive nature of transporting large sums of money. Investigations are likely to follow as authorities seek to determine the causes of the crash and assess the response mechanisms utilized during the emergency.