A C-130 Hercules aircraft from the Colombian Air Force crashed on the morning of March 23 in Puerto Leguízamo, Putumayo, during takeoff maneuvers while carrying Public Force troops. More than 60 people, equivalent to nearly two Army battalions, were on board. Authorities have not confirmed the exact number of victims, and rescue operations continue.
On the morning of Monday, March 23, a C-130 Hercules aircraft from the Colombian Aerospace Force crashed in the municipality of Puerto Leguízamo, Putumayo, shortly after taking off from the airport. The plane was carrying nearly two battalions from the National Army, more than 60 Public Force members in total, according to official statements from the military and Defense Minister Pedro Arnulfo Sánchez. So far, the exact number of victims and the causes of the crash are unknown, with protocols activated for affected individuals and families, alongside ongoing investigations. Relief agencies, National Army, and Police are conducting search and rescue operations in the area. Minister Sánchez stated: “With deep sorrow I report that a Hercules plane from our Air Force suffered a tragic accident while taking off from Puerto Leguízamo (Putumayo), when it was transporting our Public Force troops.” He added: “I express my sincerest condolences to the families of those affected and, out of respect for their pain, I call to avoid speculation until we have official information.” President Gustavo Petro commented on X, criticizing bureaucratic delays in military armament renewal and outlining modernization plans, including purchases of helicopters and transport aircraft. He hoped “we have no deaths in this horrific accident that should not have happened.” Meanwhile, the Government of Panama issued a statement of condolences: “In these moments of pain, Panama extends its sincerest condolences to the Government and brother people of the Republic of Colombia, as well as to the victims' families, whom it accompanies with solidarity and respect in the face of such an irreparable loss.” It invited reaffirming fraternal ties between the two countries. The information is still developing.
