Colombia: Four children were found alive on Friday after being lost in the Colombian Amazon rainforest for 40 days. The children, aged 13, 9, 4, and 1, were all members of the Uitoto Indigenous group and had been traveling with their mother when their plane crashed on May 1. The mother and two other adults on board were killed in the crash, but the children survived.
The children were found by a search party of Colombian soldiers and indigenous scouts. They were reportedly in good health, but were suffering from dehydration and malnutrition. They were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The children’s survival is a remarkable feat. The Amazon rainforest is a dangerous and unforgiving place, and it is rare for anyone to survive for so long in the wilderness. The children’s story has inspired people around the world, and it is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
The children’s grandfather, Fidencio Valencia, said that he was overjoyed to learn that his grandchildren were safe. “I am so happy,” he said. “I can’t believe it.”
President Gustavo Petro also expressed his joy at the children’s survival and tweeted about the same. “This is a great day for Colombia,” he said. “The children are a symbol of hope for our country.”
The children’s story is a reminder of the dangers of flying in the Amazon rainforest. The region is home to a number of small airlines that operate on aging aircraft. In recent years, there have been a number of fatal crashes in the Amazon, many of which have claimed the lives of Indigenous people.
The children’s survival is a miracle, and it is a testament to their strength and resilience. Their story is a reminder that even in the face of great adversity, there is always hope.