Yemen: Over 80 People Die In Ramadan Stampede

Authorities have confirmed that tragedy struck Sanaa, the capital of Yemen, and that at least 80 people perished in a terrible accident that occurred at a school as aid was being distributed for Ramadan.

Social media videos that have gone viral depict the frantic events that followed the incident in the city’s Bab-al-Yemen neighbourhood.

Hundreds of people reportedly rushed into the school to receive gifts and donations totaling about $9 (£7) per person, according to the BBC.

Since 2015, Houthi rebels have taken charge of the city after they drove out the government.

The interior ministry disclosed that those responsible for the distribution had been detained, and an investigation is underway.

A spokesman for the ministry blamed the stampede on the “random distribution” of funds without coordination with local officials.

A health official in Sanaa said many people were also injured, with 13 in a critical situation.

Rescue efforts were ongoing at the time of filing this report.