In the frame of the current complex law and order situation in the Catatumbo region, the Colombian Aerospace Force carried out a successful aeromedical transfer of the municipality of El Tarra, Department of Norte de Santander. The humanitarian support preserve the life of a 43-year-old man and a 16-year-old minor, both with injuries caused by firearm shrapnel; they apparently are peace signatories and required urgent medical assistance.
The transfer was made in a UH-60 Angel helicopter, escorted by a HUEY-II, which took off of the Air Combat Command No.1, in Puerto Salgar, Cundinamarca, to increase the security of the mission. On board, a team made of a doctor, a nurse and two non-commissioned officers specialists in personnel recovery, provided initial care to the patients, while they were on their way to the Emiro Quintero Ca帽izares Hospital, in the municipality of Oca帽a, to receive specialized medical assistance.
The operation had the support of Colombian National Army on the ground, highlighting the inter-institutional coordination to face emergencies in areas hit by the conflict. This aerial intervention became indispensable to safeguard the lives of the injured and medical personnel, given the lack of security conditions in the sector, which did not allow the use of ambulances on the ground.
Source: Public Communications Office CACOM 1
