According to Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez, the Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin crashed only about 1.5km from the takeoff point. After the collision, the ammunition on board exploded, making the scene particularly serious.
Puerto Leguizamo Mayor Luis Emilio Bustos confirmed the death toll was 34. Meanwhile, Governor of Putumayo, Mr. Jhon Gabriel Molina, said there are still 21 victims whose identities have not been identified.
The Colombian Air Force said that at the time of the accident, there were a total of 125 people on board, including 11 crew members. Local authorities warned that the number of casualties could continue to increase as search and verification work is still ongoing.
Mr. Pedro Sanchez emphasized that there are no signs that the plane crash is related to illegal armed groups. He also affirmed that the plane is eligible to operate and the crew meets all standards before takeoff.
The cause of the accident is currently being urgently investigated.
