Example of Survival: 4 children survive in Amazon jungle for 40 days after plane crash

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Four Indigenous children have displayed remarkable courage and resilience after surviving an Amazon plane crash that claimed the lives of three adults. Stranded in the unforgiving jungle for 40 arduous days, these young survivors managed to endure until they were ultimately discovered by Colombian soldiers during a search-and-rescue mission.

In the immediate aftermath of the crash, the children relied on fariña, a cassava flour salvaged from the wreckage, as their lifeline. As their supplies dwindled, they resorted to consuming seeds to sustain themselves. Fortunately, the timing aligned with a bountiful jungle harvest, providing them with an additional source of nourishment in the form of fruits.

The search efforts, initiated two weeks after the crash, proved fruitful on May 16 when the wreckage was located and the bodies of the deceased adults were recovered. However, the children’s whereabouts remained unknown, fueling the determination of Colombia’s army to intensify the pursuit. With 150 soldiers and dogs navigating through mist and thick foliage, and supported by Indigenous tribe volunteers, the collaborative search effort played a vital role in locating the resilient children.

Damaris Mucutuy, an aunt of the children, provided reassurance that despite dehydration and insect bites, the young survivors were in stable condition and were receiving necessary mental health services. During their time in the jungle, the children formed a deep bond with a rescue dog named Wilson, brought along by the soldiers. Tragically, Wilson disappeared, prompting ongoing efforts to locate the beloved Belgian Shepherd.

As the search progressed, promising clues emerged, reinforcing the belief that the children had indeed endured their harrowing ordeal. Footprints, a baby bottle, diapers, and partially consumed fruit-bearing human bites served as evidence of their presence.

President Gustavo Petro commended the children as an “example of survival” and stated that their saga would be etched in history. He acknowledged the jungle as their savior and proclaimed the children not only children of the forest but also children of Colombia.

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