Six dead in Ghana military recruitment stampede

At least six people lost their lives on Wednesday after a stampede occurred during a military recruitment exercise at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra, Ghana.

A statement signed by the Acting Director-General of the Ghana Armed Forces Public Relations Directorate, Colonel Evelyn Asamoah, confirmed that the incident resulted in the deaths of six potential recruits, while several others sustained injuries.

Videos circulating on social media showed long queues forming on nearby streets, as applicants reportedly arrived as early as 2am to line up for the recruitment exercise.

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Asamoah said the stampede occurred early in the morning when a large crowd of applicants breached security protocols and forced their way through the stadium gates ahead of the scheduled screening.

The statement, posted on the Force’s official X handle, read, “The Ghana Armed Forces deeply regrets to inform the general public of a tragic stampede prior to the commencement of the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise today, Wednesday, 12th November 2025, at the El-Wak Sports Stadium, Accra.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the stampede was triggered by an unexpected surge of applicants who breached security protocols and rushed into the gates ahead of the scheduled screening at about 0620 hours.”

Asamoah added that investigations were ongoing, while medical teams had been deployed to attend to the injured.

“The unfortunate incident led to the death of six potential recruits and many others injured. The injured are currently receiving emergency medical care at the 37 Military Hospital.

“The Ghana Armed Forces assures the general public that medical teams are working tirelessly to stabilise affected individuals. Meanwhile, arrangements are being made to notify the families of the deceased.

“The Ghana Armed Forces extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to those injured. Further updates will be communicated,” the PRO added.