Magaya stampede: Gas stove explosion alleged

The stampede that claimed 11 lives injuring 40 others at Prophet Walter Magaya’s PHD Ministries crusade was allegedly caused by a gas stove explosion, according to latest reports.

It is alleged that Amos Muzeiwa of Bloomingdale Harare who was braaing and selling meat to congregants tried to switch off the stove, when he saw multitudes trooping outside the stadium and it exploded creating a panic by the entrance that could have triggered a stampede that claimed 11 lives and seriously injuring 40 others.

In a telephone interview with ZBC Mr Muzeiwa confirmed that his gas stove exploded, but he said it was well after the stampede had occurred.

Earlier reports had indicated that the stampede was triggered by police who closed all gates leaving one narrow exit point for the huge crowd while firing tear smoke into crowds.

Police have however denied firing tear smoke into thousands of congregants who had gathered for the PHD Ministries crusade.

It has also emerged that Kwekwe council had keys to other exit points that were locked on the fateful day and that the local authority refused earlier requests that panels of the precast wall be removed to allow free movement of people.

Meanwhile, police are set to issue a press statement on Sunday in Harare. ZBC