Ex-Air Force Commander Elson Moyo involved in road traffic accident! Former Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) Commander, Retired Chief Air Marshal Elson Moyo, survived a car accident on Tuesday afternoon while traveling alone from his Concession Hill Farm near Chegutu. Moyo, 67, reportedly lost control of his vehicle, resulting in a serious accident that left him with injuries to his right arm and shoulder.
Details of the Accident
The incident occurred on October 29, 2024, around 3 p.m., at the 10-kilometer mark along the Chegutu-Pickstone Road. According to a leaked police memo from Chegutu’s district intelligence office, Moyo’s vehicle veered off the road after he failed to navigate a curve, ultimately colliding with a tree before coming to a stop on its wheels. The retired Air Marshal was driving a silver Toyota Hilux double cab at the time, with license plate number AES3454.
The memo reads:
“Upon reaching the 10 km peg, he failed to negotiate a curve. The vehicle veered off the road to the right, hit a tree, and landed on its wheels. The sole party did not sustain any visible injuries but was complaining of a painful right hip and shoulder.”
Immediate Aftermath and Medical Response
Though Moyo’s injuries appeared minor, he reported pain in his hip and shoulder. Following the crash, a well-wisher promptly transported him to Chegutu District Hospital. From there, he was airlifted to Harare for further medical evaluation. Moyo’s condition is reported to be stable, with his injuries not deemed life-threatening.
The accident caused significant damage to the vehicle, including a dislodged front right wheel, a damaged headlamp, and a bent front fender. Chegutu’s traffic department is now conducting a formal investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding the accident, recorded under Report Received Book (RRB) Number 5841121.
Suspicious Circumstances Investigated by Police
While it remains unclear if there were any unusual factors contributing to the crash, police have flagged the incident as warranting a deeper investigation. The circumstances are considered suspicious by the ZRP Chegutu Traffic Department, and they will be closely examining potential mechanical issues or environmental conditions that may have influenced Moyo’s loss of control.
Moyo’s Dismissal from the AFZ and Political Context
Moyo’s accident comes on the heels of his recent retirement from the AFZ, a decision made by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in August 2024. This retirement closely followed a high-profile incident involving the presidential plane, which aborted a landing at Victoria Falls Airport due to a bomb scare. While the bomb scare and Moyo’s subsequent dismissal remain publicly unconnected, the coincidence has fueled speculation. Moyo was replaced by Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede, but no official reason was provided for his retirement.
The incident attracted significant attention due to Moyo’s reputation as a senior military figure who held a critical role within Zimbabwe’s security apparatus. His dismissal, which was part of a wave of leadership changes within the AFZ, has prompted observers to question whether the accident might have connections to recent shifts within the military establishment or broader political tensions.
Reflecting on Moyo’s Contributions
Moyo had served as the AFZ commander for several years, overseeing various operations and modernization efforts within Zimbabwe’s air force. Known for his dedication and firm leadership style, he played a significant role in Zimbabwe’s defense initiatives. His transition from military service to civilian life was anticipated by some as a quieter chapter after a notable career, yet recent events have kept his name in public discourse.
Community and National Response
Moyo’s accident has stirred concern among colleagues, family, and members of the security forces, many of whom have shared messages of support and relief that his injuries were not more severe. Social media platforms saw messages from citizens and some military figures expressing both sympathy and curiosity about the circumstances of the incident.
As Moyo recovers, his story serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by public figures even after stepping down from official roles. The unfolding investigation may provide insights into the causes of the accident and any potential implications for the former AFZ commander.
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