The police in Bauchi have confirmed that a stampede at a venue of the distribution of Zakat (almsgiving) by a Bauchi-based philanthropist, the Chairman of the AYM Shafa group of companies, has caused the death of four persons.
While confirming the death from the stampede, the Bauchi State Police Command PPRO, SP Ahmed Wakili said that the Command received a distress call from ATBU Teaching Hospital on the people being rushed there for medical attention.
“On receiving the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Auwal Musa Mohammed directed for the mobilization of personnel to the scene for urgent action.”
Wakil said on arrival to the scene the Police operatives joined in the rescue operations and cordoned off the area to prevent further casualties while the exercise was stopped.
“The victims were rushed to the ATBUTH unconscious after which a Medical Doctor confirmed four of them dead, including a 17-year-old girl is currently receiving treatment at the hospital.”
He stated that the Command is appealing to individuals and organizations that have plans of embarking on such to adequately inform the Command to mobilize personnel to the venue for effective crowd control.
The crowd, largely made up of women, old and young, had gathered at the Jos Road headquarters of the Company as early as 7 am on Sunday for the distribution of the Zakat items.
It was reliably gathered that the exercise started smoothly as the beneficiaries were called in in groups to receive the items until the others became restless and apprehensive leading to a struggle to get into the main premises.
In the process, a stampade ensued as the women tried to force themselves inside while in the process, many of them fell on the ground and were trampled upon leading to the casualties.
All efforts to get official confirmation and reactions from the management of AYM Shafa on the development proved abortive as no official was available to talk to Journalists at the office.
By Lizzy Carr
