Lima: A Bolivian military aircraft transporting cash for the central bank crashed near El Alto International Airport in the western part of the country, leaving more than 10 people dead and an unspecified number injured.
The crash was followed by unrest at the scene as dozens of people attempted to seize banknotes scattered across the area, clashing with security forces. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds before burning the bills after central bank officials said the cash had no legal value.
“These banknotes are not valid, they are illegal, they are not in circulation. Therefore, we are proceeding to burn them, and anyone who holds them is acting illegally,” David Espinoza, the central bank’s president, said at the site as flames consumed the currency.
The shipment was part of a contract for 966.9 million banknotes from Crane Currency Malta Ltd., Espinoza said, without specifying how much money was on board. The cash was being transported by military aircraft from Santa Cruz to El Alto, near the capital La Paz.
The Air Force said eight crew members were on board the aircraft. At least six were injured and two remained missing at about 9 p.m. local time. Most of the victims were people in vehicles that were struck by the plane as it crashed.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident. At least 12 people were arrested amid the clashes, and some individuals attempted to damage airport infrastructure, authorities said.
Disclaimer: This report is auto generated from the Bloomberg news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
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