H-Metro
Mathew Masinge
POLICE have said they will now enforce the numbers of people who should attend public events after two people died, and several others were injured, in a stampede at Borrowdale Race Course on Saturday.
The deceased have been identified as Thomas Maarira (43) and Emilia Makoga (44) of Hatcliffe.
They had attended the 62nd edition of the Castle Tankard horse race.
Singer Winky D’s performance was brought to a premature ending, after it went beyond the 10pm deadline, by which the Castle Tankard musical show was supposed to end as per the Covid-19 regulations.
Enzo Ishall and Alick Macheso had performed earlier in the day.
In a statement, Police national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner, Paul Nyathi, said they will now enforce a limited number of fans at public music events.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating the sad and unfortunate death of two people at Borrowdale Race Course on 7 May 2022 after 10pm due to stampede after the Castle Tankard musical performance by Winky D.
“The stampede victims have been identified as Thomas Maarira (43) of 1122 Hatcliffe Co-operative, Harare and Emilia Makoga (44) of Zvakatanga Sekuseka Co-operative, Phase 1 Hatcliffe, Harare.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will continue to engage organisers of big social gatherings, especially entertainment activities, to ensure that a limited number of people is allowed access during musical performances.”
Police said investigations were still going on.
“The police express condolences to the bereaved families and assures the public that inquiries are in progress.
“The regrettable incident occurred while the public was on its way out of the Race Course through an inside exit point,” said Ass Comm Nyathi.
Event organisers Delta Beverages and Mashonaland Turf Club, said their hearts were with the bereaved.
“The Castle Tankard event organisers, Delta Beverages and Mashonaland Turf Club, participating artists, trade partners and stakeholder are saddened by the reports of fatalities and injuries that occurred at the close of the very successful hosting of the Castle Tankard 2022 edition.
“We are informed that the relevant authorities are conducting investigations and will update the nation at the relevant time.
“Our hearts and prayers are with you our Castle Tankard family, especially those who lost their loved ones and those nursing injuries,” said Delta Corporation General Manager corporate affairs, Patricia Murambinda.
