At least nine people have been confirmed dead in a stampede at Freedom City mall in Kampala at New Year’s Eve, police say.
Freedom City mall is a shopping centre located in Namasuba along Entebbe road.
It is alleged that the incident occurred at midnight when the event’s MC encouraged attendees to go outside and watch the fireworks display.
After the display ended, a stampede ensued, resulting in the instant deaths of five people and injuries to several others.
ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy police spokesperson, Kampala Metropolitan area, says Emergency responders arrived on the scene and transported the injured individuals to the hospital, where nine were confirmed dead including several juveniles.
“The bodies have been transferred to City Mortuary Mulago. More information will be made available as it becomes available,” says Owoyesigyire.
He says Police are now investigating an incident of rash and neglect.