Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba
A DEEP sorrow has descended upon the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) following the devastating loss of Squadron Leader (Retired) Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube, a revered veteran pilot, whose Air Force of Zimbabwe fighter jet tragically crashed near Gweru yesterday morning. The Chengdu J-7/F-7 aircraft plummeted to the ground in the Wazheri area, close to the Sino Zimbabwe Cement Company, silencing a life dedicated to the skies and to his nation.
In a statement, the ZDF confirmed the tragic loss of Squadron Leader Ncube.
“A dark cloud has engulfed the Zimbabwe Defence Forces family after an Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) F-7 fighter aircraft crashed in the Wazheri General 2 area, along the Gweru-Mvuma Road. As a result of the crash, the pilot, Squadron Leader (Retired) Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube, lost his life,” the statement read.
The ZDF noted that the aircraft was on a routine sortie at the time of the incident.
Squadron Leader Ncube was more than just a pilot; he was a passionate aviator whose unwavering commitment to his country saw him return to the AFZ after retirement. His dedication to training the next generation of fighter pilots at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base makes his loss even more distressing.
“At the time of his passing, he was one of the experienced pilots training young fighter pilots at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base,” the statement said.
General Philip Valerio Sibanda, ZDF Commander, expressed the collective anguish in his message of condolence.
“The Zimbabwe Defence Forces has learnt, with heavy hearts, of the passing of a proficient and highly experienced pilot, Squadron Leader Ncube, following an aircraft accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased pilot. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time,” said General Sibanda.
Investigations are now underway to unearth the cause of the tragic crash, leaving many to wonder what led to the fall of such an experienced hand from the skies he so dearly loved.
