One killed, 77 hospitalised after Colombian military plane crashes shortly after take-off

At least one person was killed and 77 others hospitalised when a Colombian Air Force plane carrying 125 people crashed just after takeoff deep in the country's southern Amazon region on Monday.

The status of more than 40 pepople on board is yet to be confirmed, President Gustavo Petro said in a post on X.

Colombian Air Force Commander Fernando Silva said in a video posted on social media that the plane was carrying 114 passengers and 11 crew members, and that authorities were still investigating the cause of the crash.

Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez said earlier on X the accident happened as the Lockheed Martin-built Hercules C-130 was taking off from Puerto Leguizamo on the border with Peru, as it transported troops.

Footage from the scene published by local outlet BluRadio showed thick plumes of smoke rising from the wreckage. One video showed the plane heading towards the ground just seconds after takeoff. BluRadio said the crash took place just 3 km from an urban centre.

Two military sources earlier told Reuters that 71 people had been rescued from the wreckage.

A spokesperson for Lockheed Martin said the company extended its condolences to those affected by the crash and that it was committed to helping Colombia as it investigates the incident.