The Acting Defense Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, has officially informed Parliament about the tragic incident that occurred at the El-Wak Sports Stadium during the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment exercise. The stampede resulted in six confirmed deaths and left numerous applicants injured.
Addressing the House, Dr. Forson explained that the recruitment process had been decentralized specifically to reduce congestion and ensure transparency, yet the stampede unfortunately occurred at the El-Wak facility in Accra today Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Providing a detailed breakdown of the casualties, the Minister confirmed that six persons are dead.
Additionally, five individuals are currently in critical condition and are receiving care in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the 37 Military Hospital. Another 12 persons are in a fairly critical condition, and a total of 28 individuals were rushed to the 37 Military Hospital for immediate treatment.
He however revealed that “some of these people were not related to the enlistment at all”
In response to the tragedy, the Ministry of Defense has announced that it has halted the recruitment process in Accra pending further notice. Furthermore, an internal board of inquiry has been instituted to thoroughly investigate the causes and circumstances leading to the incident.
The Ministry of Defense has extended its deepest condolences to the affected families. Dr. Forson assured the nation that the Ministry is actively working with medical teams and law enforcement agencies to provide comprehensive support to the injured and complete the necessary investigations.
He concluded by emphasizing that the Ministry prioritizes the safety and dignity of all applicants and will take immediate steps to prevent any reoccurrence of such a tragedy.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
