An apparent stampede at the biggest stadium in the Democratic Republic of Congo is being blamed for the deaths of at least nine people during a concert on Saturday.
The Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa has been closed as investigation got underway to determine the cause of the incident which happened as gospel singer Mike Kalambay was on stage.
It comes two years after a stampede during a Fally Ipupa concert led the the deaths of 11 people.
There were reports that at least 30, 000 people had turned up for Saturday’s live performance in the stadium which has a capacity of 80, 000, dispelling claims that overcrowding was to blame.
Kinshasa’s governor, Daniel Bumba said “crowd movements” were to blame for the tragedy.
Some 2000 police officers were reportedly drafted in to provide security during the concern.
The Martyrs Stadium had hosted some big events in the past including football matches involving the country’s national team and the inauguration of President Félix Tshisekedi.
WN/as/APA