At least six people were confirmed dead on Wednesday following a stampede 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, said several others sustained injuries in the incident, which occurred before the start of the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise.

Videos shared on social media showed large crowds lining up outside the stadium, with many applicants reportedly arriving as early as 2 a.m. to secure a place in line.

According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the tragedy happened when a surge of applicants forced their way through the gates, breaching security protocols ahead of the scheduled screening.

“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,” the statement said.

Asamoah confirmed that six potential recruits lost their lives, while the injured were taken to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra for emergency treatment.

“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,” she said.

The Armed Forces expressed condolences to the bereaved families and pledged to provide further updates as investigations continue.