By Tiyese Monjeza:
Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Commander General Paul Valentino Phiri has assured bereaved families of nine people who were killed during a tragic plane crash in Chikangawa Forest in Mzimba District that they will be furnished with a final report of the accident once investigations are completed.
Phiri made the remarks Friday at Jauma Village in Traditional Authority Malemia in Zomba District when he attended the funeral of Colonel Owen Sambalopa who was amongst the plane crew.
“For now we cannot say much on what exactly happened as what we have now are preliminary findings. What we plead for is patience and be assured we will do our best to find the cause of the accident,” Phiri said.
Phiri described Sambalopa as a dedicated soldier who joined the MDF in 1992.
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Minister of Defence Harry Mkandawire announced that President Lazarus Chakwera had condoled the bereaved family of Sambalopa with K3 million.
“The President is soconcerned with this death of noble citizens who served the nation well. He is extending his condolence to families affected and is calling for unity amongst the citizens at this time,” Mkandawire said.
Sambalopa has died at the age of 55. He is survived by a wife and five children.
Notable figures that also attended the ceremony include Minister of Lands, Deus Gumba, Minister of Mining Monica Chaang’amuno, Zomba District Commissioner Reighnard Chavula, Deputy Advisor to President on religious affairs Sheikh Hashim Abasi and some Zomba lawmakers.
