Zimbabwe police investigate fatal stampede at National Sports Stadium

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an investigation into a fatal incident at the National Sports Stadium during an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

At approximately 6:30 pm, a stampede occurred at Gate Number Two as spectators attempted to enter the venue. During the surge, a pedestrian was involved in an incident with a police public order vehicle. Reports indicate a supporter was run over by a police crowd-control truck equipped with a water cannon during the confusion.

Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that investigations are underway to establish the exact circumstances of the death. The increased security presence was noted following the attendance of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The Commissioner-General of Police has expressed condolences to the victim's family and pledged an objective inquiry into the event.