Puerto Leguízamo, Colombia – Web Desk: A Colombian Air Force military transport aircraft has crashed shortly after takeoff, killing at least 66 people, according to official reports, with fears the death toll could rise.
The accident occurred on Monday morning in the Puerto Leguízamo region, where a Hercules-type military aircraft was departing on a routine operation when it went down shortly after takeoff.
Colombia’s Defence Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed that two military platoons were onboard, with total passengers estimated between 60 and 100.
Rescue officials said 77 injured survivors were pulled from the wreckage, while search operations continue for others still unaccounted for.
Military authorities immediately launched a large-scale rescue mission, with emergency teams working at the crash site to evacuate the injured and provide medical assistance.
The Defence Minister described the incident as a “tragic accident” and expressed solidarity with the families of the victims, urging the public to avoid speculation until official findings are released.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash, while the air force remains on high alert as rescue and recovery efforts continue.
