The management of Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale has expressed profound sorrow following the cancellation of ShattaFest UK after a stampede at the event venue in London, saying its thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected as investigations continue.
ShattaFest UK, also known as Ghana Party in the Park, was called off on Saturday after police halted the event at Copthall Playing Fields following a crowd crush.
According to reports from the scene, authorities intervened after the venue exceeded its approved capacity, resulting in severe overcrowding at one of the entrances and a stampede that left several attendees injured.
A police officer at the venue announced the cancellation, explaining that the decision was taken in the interest of public safety after “quite a lot of people” were injured.
Organisers initially described the interruption as a temporary pause before later confirming that the event had been cancelled.
In a statement issued after the incident, Shatta Wale’s management said the difficult decision to cancel the concert was taken because the safety and well-being of patrons remained paramount.
“It is with a very heavy heart that we address the unfortunate events surrounding ShattaFest UK,” the statement said.
“Following reports of a serious incident outside the venue, the difficult decision was made to cancel the event. Nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of every single person who came to celebrate music, unity, and love.”
The management said it was deeply saddened by reports of injuries and claims of fatalities but noted that it was awaiting official confirmation from the relevant authorities.
“Our hearts are with everyone who has been affected by this tragic situation. We are deeply saddened by the reports of injuries and the alleged loss of lives. While we await official confirmation from the relevant authorities regarding all the facts, our thoughts and prayers remain with the individuals involved, their families, their friends, and everyone impacted by this heartbreaking incident.”
According to the statement, Shatta Wale has always sought to bring people together through music, making the incident particularly heartbreaking.
“Shatta Wale has always stood for the people. Every performance is built on bringing joy, hope, and unforgettable memories to the fans who have supported him throughout the years. To know that what was meant to be a night of celebration has become a moment of pain is truly devastating.”
The management appealed to the public and sections of the media to avoid speculation while investigations remain ongoing.
“We respectfully ask the public and members of the media to avoid speculation while the appropriate authorities conduct their investigations. We trust that the truth will be established through the proper processes, and we encourage everyone to rely on verified information.”
It also expressed gratitude to emergency responders, security personnel, medical teams, venue staff and everyone who assisted during the incident, while thanking fans for their patience, support and understanding.
The statement further confirmed that Shatta Wale and the Shatta Movement team would fully cooperate with authorities and event organisers to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“This is not the outcome anyone wished for. Today, our focus is not on a concert—it is on the people whose lives have been affected.”
“We ask everyone to keep the victims, their loved ones, and all those impacted in your prayers.”
The Metropolitan Police is yet to issue an official update on the number of casualties or the outcome of its investigations.
