Amanze Chinonye
Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were killed when a helicopter crashed in rural Marondera on Wednesday, the family confirmed, in an accident that killed all those aboard.
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Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed the deaths to Zimbabwe’s state broadcaster ZBC News, as relatives gathered following the crash. Police said the helicopter had six people aboard, while government spokesperson Nick Mangwana gave differing figures in successive updates.
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The aircraft crashed at about 5 p.m. local time in the Marondera Rural area, roughly 70 km east of Harare, police said. Emergency responders were deployed to the scene, where the aircraft caught fire and the victims’ bodies were badly burned, according to police.
Mangwana initially said the helicopter was carrying a high-profile businessman, three passengers and two pilots. He later edited his post to say it was carrying four passengers and two pilots, which would bring the total to seven. The discrepancy has not been resolved by authorities.
Police said efforts were under way to formally identify the victims. Authorities have not disclosed what caused the helicopter to crash, and an investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
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Chivayo, 43, was a prominent Zimbabwean businessman known for his high-profile business activities and links to political and business figures. His business dealings and political connections have previously attracted public scrutiny, including over allegations concerning public procurement and election financing, which he denied.
Further details on the identities of the other victims and the cause of the crash are expected as authorities continue their investigation.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
