Deadly Stampede at Packed Kinshasa Concert
At least 11 people, including two police officers, have died in a deadly crush at a Fally Ipupa concert in Kinshasa’s Martyrs’ Stadium. Interior Minister Daniel Aselo Okito slammed the organisers, blaming overcrowding for the tragedy.
Stadium Overcrowded Beyond Capacity
The stadium, designed to hold 80,000 fans, was packed well beyond its limit. Some in the crowd forced their way into VIP and reserved sections, Reuters reporters at the scene revealed. Police used tear gas outside the venue to disperse violent crowds as thousands gathered before the show.
Condolences and Calls for Accountability
Speaking at the stadium, Minister Okito expressed grief, saying: “Eleven people dead… including two police.” He vowed that the organisers would face punishment for letting things spiral out of control. A policeman on site described the catastrophe as a “stampede” where “music lovers suffocated.”
Late Start and Chaos
Ipupa, a Congolese superstar renowned across Africa and beyond, arrived hours after the scheduled start. The venue was reportedly bursting at the seams, with witnesses stating that even the stadium corridors were overflowing. Kinshasa police chief General Sylvain Sasongo initially reported nine fatalities, highlighting just how grim the situation became.
