Nine die in chaos following overcrowding at DR Congo gospel concert: Minister
Jul 29, 2024
Kinshasa [Congo], July 29: At least nine people died and others were injured at a live concert in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday, the country's health minister has said.
Gospel singer and pastor Mike Kalambay was performing at the 80,000-seater Martyrs Stadium in the capital, Kinshasa, but photos taken at the event show scenes of overcrowding.
A 10-year-old child is among those who died, according to local media.
The governor of Kinshasa, Daniel Bumba, has released a statement blaming "excesses and crowd movements" for the disaster.
DR Congo's justice minister has ordered an investigation, and the questioning of the police officers who were present at the time and the event organiser Maajabu Gospel.
In a statement released after Saturday's concert, Maajabu Gospel said it was deeply saddened to learn of the deaths. It blamed "troublemakers", and said there were 2,000 police officers at the event who had tried to pacify them. (Agencies)
Source: Qatar Tribune
