In a tragic incident reported by media outlets, a private plane carrying an Indian billionaire and his son, among others, crashed near a diamond mine in southwestern Zimbabwe. The crash was attributed to a technical fault, resulting in the loss of six lives.
The billionaire in question is Harpal Randhawa, who owned RioZim, a diversified mining company engaged in the production of gold, coal, nickel, and copper refining. Alongside his son and four other individuals, Harpal Randhawa met his untimely demise when their Cessna 206 aircraft, owned by RioZim, crashed in the Zvamahande area of Mashava. The plane was en route from Harare to the Murowa diamond mine when the accident occurred.
Tragically, the single-engined aircraft experienced a technical fault, potentially leading to a mid-air explosion, before crashing into Peter Farm in the Zvamahande region. All passengers and crew onboard lost their lives in the incident, as confirmed by local authorities.
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Reports from The Herald, a state-owned daily newspaper, stated that four of the victims were foreigners, while the other two were Zimbabwean nationals.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police provided details of the crash, indicating that it happened on September 29 between 7.30 am and 8 am, approximately 6 km from Mashava. The aircraft, bearing the colors of the Murowa Diamond Company (RioZim), had taken off from Harare at 6 am.
RioZim acknowledged the crash and mentioned that they were cooperating with relevant authorities to gather more information about the incident. However, the names of the deceased were yet to be officially released by the police.
Journalist and filmmaker Hopewell Chinono, a friend of Harpal Randhawa, confirmed the billionaire’s tragic passing and expressed condolences to his family and the RioZim community. Harpal Randhawa’s son, who was also a pilot but a passenger on the ill-fated flight, lost his life alongside his father.
The company secretary of RioZim indicated that a comprehensive statement would be issued soon, stating, “I am not in a position to address the media right now. We will, however, be issuing a statement as soon as possible.”
Harpal Randhawa was not only the owner of RioZim but also the founder of the USD 4 billion private equity firm GEM Holdings.
In the wake of this devastating plane crash, local communities and law enforcement agencies are collaborating to manage the aftermath and offer support to those affected by this tragic event.
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