Zimbabwe probes helicopter crash that killed tycoon Chivayo
A helicopter crash in Zimbabwe has resulted in the deaths of six people, including prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife. Authorities confirmed the crash occurred near Marondera, and investigations into the cause are currently underway.
Why it matters
The death of a high-profile figure with close ties to the ruling ZANU-PF party has significant political and social implications in Zimbabwe.
A high-profile businessman and his wife were among six people killed in a helicopter crash east of Zimbabwe's capital Harare on Wednesday, state broadcaster ZBC reported.
Police said the crash occurred in the Marondera rural area, about 72km (45 miles) east of Harare, at around 1500 GMT.
Wicknell Chivayo, a tycoon close to the ruling ZANU-PF party known for his extravagant displays of wealth, and his wife Lucy Muteke were among the victims, family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed to ZBC.
The helicopter crashed after leaving the family home in Gandami, about 144 km (89 miles) from Harare.
"When it crashed, it burst into flames," he said.
"There were five people. There were two pilots, his security aide, the wife and Chivayo."
Police confirmed in a short statement on X that the helicopter was carrying six occupants but could not immediately confirm the identities of the victims.
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