Colombian Lawmaker Among 15 Dead in Mountain Plane Crash Near Venezuelan Border

On January 28, a twin-propeller aircraft crashed near the Venezuelan border, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, including Colombian lawmaker Wilmer Carrillo. The plane, carrying 13 passengers and two crew members, lost contact with air traffic control shortly before its scheduled landing in Cúcuta.

The area where the crash occurred is known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. Authorities suspect the presence of armed groups, including Colombia's largest guerrilla faction, the National Liberation Army (ELN), in the region.

The Colombian Air Force has been deployed to the crash site to recover the bodies. This incident is reminiscent of previous fatal aviation accidents involving prominent figures in the country.

In January 2025, a private plane crash in central eastern Colombia claimed the lives of six people, including popular singer Yeison Jiménez.