A billionaire tycoon and his wife have been killed in a horror helicopter crash.
Prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy “Lulu” Muteke died after the aircraft came down with six people on board.
There were no survivors.
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The couple’s deaths were confirmed by a family spokesman following the tragedy.
Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe’s most high-profile businessmen and was known for flaunting his lavish lifestyle online, as reported by Need To Know.
He regularly shared pictures of luxury cars and private jets with his huge social media following.
Chivayo had built his fortune through businesses including energy and infrastructure projects.
He was also known for handing out expensive gifts, including cars, to celebrities, musicians and religious figures.
Family spokesman Herbert Chivayo confirmed the businessman and his wife had died.
He said: “Yes, we confirm that Wicknell Chivayo and his wife have perished in this tragedy.”
Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the aircraft came down in the Marondera Rural area at around 5pm on Wednesday (30 Sep).
National police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi said: “The ZRP confirms a helicopter crash in Marondera Rural area at 5pm this evening.
“The aircraft had six occupants.
“More details will be released in due course as the scene is currently being attended.”
Police initially stopped short of formally identifying those killed while their next of kin were informed.
The Zimbabwean government subsequently confirmed that nobody aboard had survived.
Government spokesman Nick Mangwana said the helicopter was carrying a high-profile businessman, three other passengers and two pilots.
He said: “Current information indicates that there were no survivors in this crash.”
He added: “We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the victims, their families, and their friends during this difficult time.”
The helicopter reportedly crashed at a farm near Waddilove Mission in Marondera Rural, Mashonaland East Province.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene following the crash.
The cause has not yet been established and an investigation is underway.
Chivayo was well known in Zimbabwe for his wealth and high-profile connections.
He had close links with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and frequently referred to the leader as his “principal”.
He had also shared photographs of meetings with a number of African leaders.
Chivayo’s business dealings and political links had previously attracted controversy and scrutiny.
He denied wrongdoing over allegations concerning public procurement and political funding.
But alongside his controversial public profile, he became known for giving away expensive gifts and making large donations.
Pictures posted to social media showed Chivayo and Lucy enjoying a luxury lifestyle before their deaths.
The identities of the other people killed in the crash had not been formally released by police at the time of writing.
Police and emergency services remained at the scene as authorities began investigating what caused the helicopter to come down.
