9 dead in Kampala after shopping mall stampede

At least nine people have died in Kampala, Uganda during a stampede that occurred at Freedom Mall on December 31, 2022.

According to Uganda's Daily Monitor, the tragedy happened as revellers ushered in the New Year during festivities.

Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire said that the incident allegedly happened after an MC told people to go watch fireworks.

“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 into the instant deaths of five people,”he said.

After the incident, emergency responders are said to have transported several casualties to a hospital where a total of nine fatalities were confirmed following the crowd crush.