POLICE have confirmed that controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and three others were on board the helicopter that crashed and burst into flames at Kudenga Farm in Marondera on Wednesday.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said forensic scientists and aviation experts had attended the crash site as investigations into the cause of the tragedy got underway.
Chivayo, whose lavish lifestyle and high-profile political connections have frequently attracted public attention, died alongside his wife in the crash.
In a statement issued on Thursday, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the helicopter had five occupants.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reports that the scene has been attended by forensic scientists and other aviation experts,” Nyathi said.
“The Police therefore confirms that the helicopter had five occupants, namely; Wicknell Munodaani Chivhayo, Lucy Rujeko Muteke, Saneliswe Magagula, Calvin Tafirei Soda (pilot) and Courage Mutavirwa (co-pilot).”
The confirmation puts to rest earlier uncertainty over the number and identities of those aboard the helicopter, with police saying investigations were now focused on establishing the circumstances that led to the fatal crash.
“Meanwhile, the Police in conjunction with the relevant experts, is conducting investigations into the circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash,” Nyathi said.
“More information will be released as investigations unfold.”
The crash occurred on September 30 at Kudenga Farm in Marondera, with the aircraft coming down in circumstances that remain under investigation.
Nyathi said police were working with aviation specialists as part of the ongoing probe into the crash.
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