At least 78 killed in stampede for donations in Yemen

At least 78 people were killed in a stampede in the Yemeni capital Sanaa as hundreds gathered in a school to receive donations during the holy month of Ramadan.

Local media reported several people were injured, 13 critically, citing the director of health in Sanaa.

Hundreds of people had crowded into a school to receive the donations, which amounted to 5,000 Yemeni riyals, or about $9 per person, from merchants, two witnesses involved in the rescue effort told Reuters.

A video posted on Telegram messaging app showed a crowd of people jammed together, some screaming and shouting and reaching out to be pulled to safety. Security staff fought to push people back and control the crowd.

Another video after the stampede showed scores of discarded shoes, a crutch and clothing on the steps of the building, and forensic investigators in protective white suits sorting through personal belongings.

The two merchants responsible for organising the donation drive have been detained and an investigation launched into the tragedy.