The late Brighton Soni
By Wellington Mareva
A tragic road accident near Norton along the Harare–Bulawayo Road on Tuesday, 15 July, claimed the life of Brighton Soni — a respected former ZRP Police Band member and telecoms expert.
The accident occurred in the evening as he was returning from official duties in Gweru, just hours before what would have been his 45th birthday.
According to early reports, the vehicle Brighton was travelling in with two colleagues was struck from behind by an overspeeding car, causing it to roll several times. All three occupants died at the scene.
The names of the other two victims had not been released at the time of publishing.
Brighton Soni served as a player and technician with the ZRP Police Dance Band and was known among colleagues for his strong work ethic and infectious sense of humour. Fondly nicknamed “Thembox,” “Mazelock,” and “Zembok,” he was the kind of person who could light up every room he entered.
After leaving the ZRP, Soni continued his technical work in private companies briefly gling to South Africa, before coning back to join ZB Bank, then Ericoms and Black Shark Protection Services where his dedication and expertise stood out.
His loss is deeply felt by both his former bandmates and current colleagues.
He leaves behind a wife and three children.
Brighton’s favourite movie was Heaven Is Real — a poignant detail for a man whose life touched so many and whose sudden departure reminds us how fragile and fleeting life can be.
Funeral arrangements will be announced once finalised. Sources close to the family indicate he will likely be laid to rest at Zororo Cemetery Park near Chitungwiza.
May Brighton and his colleagues rest in eternal peace.
