By Christiana Afua Nyarko, GNA
Accra, Nov. 12, GNA – Six applicants have been confirmed dead and 34 others injured following a stampede the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra on Tuesday during a nationwide recruitment exercise into the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
The incident occurred in the morning when thousands of eager applicants thronged the stadium to take part in the enlistment screening.
Eyewitnesses said the situation turned chaotic when the gates were opened, as the large crowd surged forward in an attempt to enter the venue, resulting in a stampede.
Emergency medical teams from the 37 Military Hospital and the Ghana National Ambulance Service were quickly deployed to the scene to provide first aid and evacuate the injured.
The victims were rushed to the 37 Military Hospital, where medical officials confirmed six dead with 34 injuries with varying degrees.
President John Dramani Mahama, accompanied by Mr Ernest Brogya Genfi, the Deputy Minister of Defence, and Lieutenant General William Agyepong, Chief of Defence Staff, visited the hospital to assess the situation and offer support to the affected families.
They were accompanied by other high-ranking military and medical officers coordinating emergency response efforts to ensure the injured received adequate care.
Meanwhile the Ghana Armed Forces has expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
In a statement signed by Naval Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director of Public Relations, copied to the Ghana News Agency, it said internal investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances that led to the incident and prevent a recurrence in future recruitment exercises,.
It said security has been tightened at recruitment centres across the country, with authorities reviewing crowd control measures to ensure the safety of applicants.
It urged the public to adhere strictly to instructions during the recruitment process to avoid further incidents.
The tragedy has sparked widespread concern and criticism over the management of mass enlistment exercises in Ghana.
Civil society groups and safety advocates have called for improved crowd management strategies and the adoption of digital screening systems to reduce congestion during future recruitment drives.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe