Colonel Patrick Gisore, widely known as “Kigofero,” has died in a shocking plane crash in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The crash also killed his wife and six other people, leaving the nation in deep sorrow and raising serious questions about what really happened.
The military officer, who was in charge of a battalion in Punia, Maniema Province, was on his way to Kisangani in Tshopo Province when tragedy struck.
On Saturday, August 16, 2025, Colonel Gisore had received urgent orders to report to Kisangani. Sources confirm that he was personally called by Lt. Gen. Pacifique Masunzu, the commander of the country’s third military zone.
He first traveled by road from Maniema, together with his close security officers and his wife, who had recently joined him for a visit.
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When the group reached Lubutu, soldiers came to receive him. They showed him to a civilian plane that was meant to carry him and his wife to Kisangani. His security detail, however, was left behind in Lubutu.
This is where things started to look unusual.
Reports say the plane took off but did not last long in the air. Shortly after departure, it crashed only 34 kilometers before reaching Kisangani International Airport.
Security services in Congo later released a statement saying the plane had hit a tree before crashing. Six people were confirmed dead on the spot.
Witnesses near the crash site described the scene as terrifying. The wreckage was scattered, and there were no signs of survivors.
“It all happened so fast. We just heard a loud noise and saw smoke. By the time we rushed there, the plane was already destroyed,” said one local resident.
The death of Colonel Gisore has left both the military and the public in shock. Many described him as a tough but respected officer who was deeply loyal to his command.
Some in Congo are now questioning whether the crash was a pure accident or if there could be more behind the story.
Why was he called urgently to Kisangani? Why was he separated from his security officers? Why was a civilian plane used instead of a military one? These questions are now circulating widely among the public.
Military officials, however, have kept their statement brief, saying only that “an accident occurred” and that investigations are underway.
Gisore’s wife, who had recently reunited with him after some time apart, also died in the crash, making the story even more tragic. Friends say she was excited about the journey and never expected it would end this way.
For many people in Maniema and beyond, Colonel Gisore’s sudden death feels like the end of an era. He had built a reputation as a fearless leader in one of the most difficult regions of eastern Congo.
In the coming days, investigations are expected to reveal more about the cause of the crash. Families of the victims are demanding answers, and citizens are watching closely.
For now, Congo mourns the loss of yet another military leader in circumstances that remain cloudy and painful.
