A Colombian military transport aircraft crashed during takeoff near Puerto Leguízamo on Monday (March 23), leaving at least 66 people dead and dozens injured, officials confirmed as rescue teams continued searching for four missing passengers.

The Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules was carrying 128 people, including Air Force members, army personnel, and police officers. Authorities said 57 survivors were taken to hospitals, with several reported in stable condition despite serious injuries.

The crash occurred near the runway shortly after takeoff, when the aircraft is believed to have struck an obstacle, possibly a tree, before going down and catching fire. Witnesses in the remote border region with Peru rushed to the scene, using motorcycles to transport injured soldiers before emergency teams arrived.

According to USA Today, the death toll nearly doubled from initial reports as recovery operations progressed, highlighting the severity of the disaster and challenges faced by first responders in reaching the crash site.

Defense officials said the aircraft may have been carrying explosive materials, which intensified the fire following impact. Investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the crash.

President Gustavo Petro expressed frustration over delays in military modernization, warning that bureaucratic hurdles could cost lives. He called for urgent reforms and accountability within both civilian and military institutions.

The C-130 fleet, in service since the 1950s, remains a key component of Colombia’s military operations, particularly in transporting troops amid its long-running internal conflict. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the crash.

BOB Post