Freedom City Stampede Claims Nine Lives

Nine people were killed in a stampede at Freedom City in Namasuba along Entebbe Road as people stormed out of the building to watch firework displays.

According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy spokesman for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the incident occured around midnight after the emcee announced that people could go outside to watch the displays.

"The Katwe Territorial Police are investigating an incident of rash and neglect that occurred at a New Year's Eve event at the Freedom City Mall Namasuba and resulted in the deaths of nine people, including several juveniles," reads Owoyesgyire's statement issued Sunday afternoon.

"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."

Adds the statemement: "Emergency responders arrived on the scene and transported the injured individuals to the hospital, where nine were confirmed dead. The bodies have been transferred to City Mortuary Mulago. More information will be made available as it becomes available".