A military cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff Monday in southwestern Colombia, near Puerto Leguizamo in the Amazonian province of Putumayo. The Lockheed C-130 Hercules was transporting troops when the accident occurred.
Initial reports indicated between 80 and 110 soldiers were on board the aircraft. Authorities have confirmed 114 passengers and 11 crew members were aboard. The crash site is located approximately 3km from an urban center.
Rescue teams were dispatched to the area, and approximately 77 people have survived the crash. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.
The defense minister described the event as a “tragic accident” and a “profoundly painful” moment for the country.