The tragedy occurred during the takeoff of a Lockheed C-130 Hercules from the airfield in Puerto Leguízamo, located on the border with Peru. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that the aircraft likely collided with an obstacle at the end of the runway.
It is reported that the aircraft struck a tree during the descent, leading to a fire and detonation of explosive materials on board. Local residents were the first to assist, evacuating survivors, including by motorcycle, until military personnel arrived.
According to preliminary data, there were 121 people on board, including 110 military personnel and 11 crew members.
President Gustavo Petro, commenting on the tragedy, emphasized the need for accelerated modernization of the military, criticizing bureaucratic obstacles that he believes endanger the lives of servicemen.
The C-130 Hercules aircraft, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, have been in operation in Colombia since the late 1960s and are actively used for troop transport amid a prolonged internal conflict.
