A small passenger plane operated by a state airline crashed in a remote area in northeastern Colombia, killing all 15 passengers and crew onboard. Among the dead was a well-known congressman and human rights defender. The president sent a deeply heartfelt message of condolence.
Satena airline, a state enterprise and operator of the flight, reported that the plane with registration HK4709 took off from the airport in Cúcuta at 11:42 a.m. local time yesterday (28 Jan), heading to the town of Ocaña, located in a valley area. The flight normally takes only 40 minutes, but just minutes after takeoff, the plane lost contact with air traffic control.
Local officials in the community of Curásica reported the crash site, after which rescue teams were dispatched. The Colombian Ministry of Transport later issued a statement saying, "It is deeply regrettable that authorities have confirmed there were no survivors at the scene."
All 15 fatalities included two pilots and cabin crew, plus 13 passengers. Among them was 36-year-old Diógenes Gintero, a congressman representing the Catatumbo district and a renowned human rights defender in the border region adjacent to Venezuela.
Gintero was elected in 2022 as one of 16 special seats reserved for victims of Colombia's armed conflict, part of the 2016 peace agreement. Reports also indicate that Carlos Salcedo, a social leader and congressional candidate, died in this accident.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro posted on social media expressing profound sorrow for the families who lost loved ones. Meanwhile, the U Party, Gintero's political party, praised him as "a dedicated leader for the region with a steadfast spirit of service."
Authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the crash and have launched a full investigation to ascertain the reasons behind this tragedy.