Chikangawa plane crash inquiry reveals search failures

A parliamentary inquiry into the June 10, 2024, Chikangawa plane crash that killed former Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others has revealed significant failures in the search and rescue operation.

Testimony from mobile operators Airtel Malawi and Telekom Networks Malawi (TNM) indicated that inaccurate or incomplete telephone information was provided during the initial hours of the search. Some numbers supplied for tracing did not belong to passengers on the aircraft, potentially delaying efforts to locate the wreckage. While one phone associated with a passenger connected to a tower, officials noted that tower data alone could not establish a precise location.

Malawi Police Inspector General Richard Luhanga admitted to the committee that search teams “really did get lost” due to the dense forest, freezing conditions, and inadequate equipment. Luhanga also cited social media misinformation and media interference as factors that complicated the operation. He defended the use of manual tools like pangas and hammers at the crash site, stating they were used instead of heavy machinery to prevent the risk of fire.