Four women reportedly died during a stampede at the venue of an almsgiving Zakaat in Bauchi state.

It was reported that the stampede occurred at about 10 am at the Shafa Holdings Company plc headquarters along Jos Road, on Sunday, March 24.

It was gathered that the crowd, largely women had gathered for the distribution of the Zakaat items, distributed by a Bauchi-based philanthropist.

The distribution was said to have begun smoothly, with beneficiaries called in groups to receive items, until restlessness among others led to a struggle to enter the premises.

Eyewitnesses said the restlessness resulted in a stampede as women tried to force their way inside, causing many to fall and be trampled upon, leading to casualties.

Confirming the incident to our reporter, the spokesperson of the state police command, SP Ahmed Wakili said the command received a distress call and immediately directed urgent action, mobilizing personnel to the scene.

He added that upon arrival, police operatives assisted in rescue operations and cordoned off the area to prevent further casualties, halting the distribution exercise.

Meanwhile, victims who remained unconscious were rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital ATBUTH where a medical doctor confirmed four fatalities, with others, including a 17-year-old girl, currently under treatment.

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