Additional details have emerged regarding the incident involving a traveler who committed suicide at JM Nkomo International Airport.
The deceased individual has been identified as Cecil Themba Elisha.
Witnesses who were on the FastJet flight FN8663 to South Africa reported that he had been assigned seat 15A.
According to these witnesses, Elisha arrived at the airport, completed the check-in process, and later proceeded to the men’s restroom where he hanged himself using a rope.
Law enforcement discovered a diary containing what appeared to be several suicide notes, indicating that Elisha was grappling with significant personal challenges.
Airport officials have chosen not to comment on the matter. When approached, Airports Company of Zimbabwe CEO Tawanda Gusha referred inquiries to Assistant Inspector Patience Ndlovu, who declined to issue a statement.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Abednico Ncube stated that he was not initially aware of the incident and requested more time to gather information.
Further details revealed that Elisha used a door hinge to hang himself, a method that surprised airport personnel due to its perceived difficulty.
Elisha, a 27-year-old from the Killarney suburb in Bulawayo, had completed all necessary travel procedures for the 5:30 PM flight to Johannesburg. His extended absence after visiting the restroom caused a delay in the flight, prompting aviation security to conduct a search, leading to the discovery of his body.
In response to the tragedy, Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart expressed profound sorrow, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a respected member of our community who was dedicated to the development of Bulawayo. The council and citizens extend their heartfelt condolences for the passing of a leader, businessman, and public figure who served with devotion and loyalty.
Source iHarare
