The government of Congo-Brazzaville has reported that a stampede occurred during an army recruitment event at a stadium, resulting in the tragic death of at least 37 individuals.

According to residents, the stampede was triggered when people attempted to force their way through the stadium gates in the capital, Brazzaville.

The recruitment drive, announced by the army last week, aimed to enlist approximately 1,500 individuals aged between 18 and 25.

The incident on Monday night also caused numerous injuries, as indicated in a government statement, which did not specify the exact number of injuries.

In response to the crisis, a "crisis unit" has been established under the authority of Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso, as reported by the AFP news agency.

The Associated Press (AP) agency noted that over the past week, up to 700 people per day have been registering at recruitment centers. This surge in interest highlights the high level of youth unemployment in Congo-Brazzaville, estimated at around 42%.

Many young individuals perceive the army as one of the limited avenues to secure employment opportunities.

The army said it had suspended recruitment in the capital following the stampede at Michel d'Ornano stadium at around 22:00 GMT.

Public prosecutor Oko Ngakala said that an investigation would be launched into the cause of the crash.

Thousands of young people had reportedly gathered outside the stadium on Monday.

Brandon Tsetou, a graduate who survived the crash, said he had queued since early in the day.

"According to the organizers, it was to be the last day. That's why many of us decided to wait until late into the night, hoping to register," he told AP.

"Some were so impatient that they had to force their way in, causing a stampede that left several people dead or injured, which we deplore."

Morgue official Adelard Yvon Bonda told AFP that 32 bodies had so far been identified by family members.

"We must first of all pay our respects to the memory of those who have just left us," he is quoted as saying.

"This is a situation that arose. It was not provoked, but it happened because young people need jobs."

Sad