LA PAZ, Feb 28,  (V7N) – At least 20 people were killed when a Bolivian military cargo plane carrying banknotes crashed while landing near La Paz, police said Friday, as crowds attempted to loot the site.  

The C-130 Hercules transport aircraft veered off the runway at El Alto International Airport and smashed into an avenue, destroying cars and trucks, local media reported. Bystanders rushed to grab scattered cash before police used tear gas to disperse them, later burning the moneyat the scene.  

Witnsses said the crash occurred during a hailstorm with lightning. “The tire is what fell on top of us… my daughter is injured,” said vendor Cristina Choque, whose car was struck by wreckage.  

Colonel Rene Tambo of the police homicide division said “about 20, maybe a few more” people died, while the health ministry reported 28 injured. Authorities confirmed fatalities both at the airport and on the avenue.  

The defense ministry said the banknotes had no official serial numbers and “no legal or purchasing power,” warning that possession or use constitutes a crime. Prosecutors said 12 people were arrested for looting attempts.  

El lto airport suspended operations as hospitals launched blood donation campaigns. At 3,650 meters altitude, La Paz is the world’s highest administrative capital, surrounded by Andean peaks.  

END/WD/RH