Bolivia Plane Crash Kills 22, Scattering Banknotes

LA PAZ, Bolivia — A military plane crash near Bolivia’s capital on Saturday resulted in 22 fatalities and scattered newly printed banknotes across the area, according to police commander Mirko Sokol [1]. The Hercules C-130 aircraft, carrying 18 tons of currency, crashed although attempting to land at an airport in El Alto, a city adjacent to La Paz.

Details of the Crash

The plane was transporting Bolivian currency from Santa Cruz when it “landed and veered off the runway,” as stated by Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas [2]. Firefighters successfully extinguished the flames that engulfed the aircraft. The crash also injured 29 people, primarily passengers on public transportation in the vicinity. Among the deceased were 12 men, including one crew member, six women and four children, as reported by Commander Sokol.

Recovery and Security Efforts

Forensic investigators are continuing to recover remains from the wreckage. The injured were transported to clinics in El Alto. Following the crash, images circulated on social media showing debris, damaged vehicles, and scattered bills.

To prevent looting, police and military personnel, numbering over 600 combined, were deployed to the site. They burned the cash boxes in the presence of Central Bank President David Espinoza, who confirmed the bills “have no legal value because they never entered circulation” [2]. Espinoza did not disclose the exact amount of money involved.

Recent Leadership Change

This incident comes shortly after Mirko Sokol assumed the position of commander general of the Bolivian Police. He was sworn in on November 28, 2025, by President Rodrigo Paz [2]. Prior to this event, Sokol was known for his commitment to combating corruption within the Bolivian police force [3].

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The incident prompted a response from police and military personnel, as well as officials from the Central Bank [4].