Batwing # 1 2011 VF/NM

Batwing # 1, released on September 7, 2011, as part of DC’s The New 52 relaunch, introduced David Zavimbe in his own ongoing series. Known as the "Batman of Africa," Zavimbe is a Congolese police officer based in the fictional city of Tinasha, Democratic Republic of the Congo, who carries out Batman's legacy as part of Batman Incorporated. 

Plot Summary 

The issue is a gritty, high-stakes introduction to the character’s environment and his primary antagonist. 

• Battle with Massacre: The story opens in media res with a brutal fight between Batwing and a machete-wielding villain named Massacre, who is hunting down former members of an African superhero team.
• The Haven: A flashback reveals Batwing’s secret base of operations, "The Haven," established with Batman’s help. Here, Zavimbe works with his close ally and father figure, Matu Ba, a former rescuer of child soldiers.
• Investigation: Batman joins Batwing to investigate a horrific crime scene involving dismembered bodies, which leads them to the identity of a victim: Dede Yeboah, also known as Earth Strike, a founding member of the legendary African hero team The Kingdom.
• Cliffhanger: David returns to his day job at the police station only to find his fellow officers slaughtered. He is ambushed and stabbed through the back by Massacre. 

Key Character Details 

• David Zavimbe: A former child soldier who escaped a warlord and eventually joined the Tinasha police force to combat corruption from within.
• The Suit: Provided by Bruce Wayne, the Batwing suit is a highly advanced armored exoskeleton capable of flight, regeneration, and adaptation.
• Significance: This series marked the first time a Black character wearing the Batman mantle headlined his own ongoing title. 

Creative Team 

• Writer: Judd Winick
• Artist: Ben Oliver
• Colors: Brian Reber
• Letters: Pat Brosseau