HARARE: A prominent Indian billionaire, known for his extensive mining interests in Zimbabwe, along with his son, was among the six individuals who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in the southern African nation.
Harpal Randhawa, the owner of RioZim, an integrated mining and metallurgical company, was en route from the capital city, Harare, to the Murowa diamond mine in southwestern Zimbabwe when the plane crashed on September 29, as reported by the state-run Sunday Times newspaper.
The ill-fated light aircraft, reportedly belonging to RioZim, crashed in the Zvamahande area of Mashava, resulting in the loss of all six passengers onboard—four foreigners and two Zimbabweans, according to local police.
Authorities suspect that a mechanical fault may have caused the mid-air crash.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police reports a plane crash which occurred on September 29 between 7.30 a.m. and 8 a.m., where six people are confirmed dead," stated the police.
They further clarified that the "white and red Zcam aircraft had left Harare for the mine at 6 a.m. and crashed about 6 km from Mashava."
RioZim, formerly part of the British-Australian mining group Rio Tinto, acknowledged the crash and announced its cooperation with relevant authorities to gather more information regarding the tragic incident.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), disclosed to local media that they were still in the process of collecting additional details surrounding the crash.
Harpal Randhawa is also renowned as the founder of the $4 billion private equity firm GEM Holdings.
Journalist and filmmaker Hopewell Chin’ono expressed his deep sadness at the loss of Randhawa. Chin’ono described Randhawa as someone who generously shared life advice and remained humble despite his considerable wealth.
Through their mutual connection in 2017, Chin’ono met Randhawa, allowing him to make connections within the business, diplomatic, and political spheres.
"Rest in Peace, your works and love for Zimbabwe will be your lasting legacy," Chin’ono shared on X (formerly Twitter).
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