66 Killed in Colombian Military Plane Crash

At least 66 people were killed and dozens injured after a Colombian military aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in southern Colombia.

The Lockheed C-130 Hercules was carrying more than 120 personnel, including army members, air force staff and police officers. The crash occurred near Puerto Leguizamo, close to the borders with Peru and Ecuador.

Officials said the aircraft went down about 1.5 km from the runway after apparently striking an obstacle during takeoff. The impact triggered a fire and explosions due to onboard ammunition, complicating rescue efforts.

More than 50 injured survivors were taken to hospitals, while at least four personnel remain missing. Authorities said there is no indication the crash was caused by an attack.

President Gustavo Petro called for urgent improvements in military safety and operations. An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.