A planned night of music and celebration ended in disappointment after ShattaFest UK was cancelled following a crowd crush outside the venue in London, prompting Shatta Wale’s management to issue a heartfelt statement expressing sympathy for those affected.
The event, also known as Ghana Party in the Park, was called off on Saturday after police intervened at Copthall Playing Fields over safety concerns linked to severe overcrowding.
Reports from the scene indicated that the venue had exceeded its approved capacity, resulting in heavy congestion at one of the entrances. The situation escalated into a stampede that reportedly left several people injured.
A police officer at the venue informed attendees that the event had been cancelled because of public safety concerns after “quite a lot of people” were hurt.
Organisers first announced a temporary suspension before later confirming that the festival would not continue.
Reacting to the incident, Shatta Wale‘s management said cancelling the event was an extremely difficult decision but insisted that protecting lives had to come first.
“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 devastated by reports that several people had been injured, as well as claims of fatalities, while stressing 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’s performances have always been centred on bringing people together, making the events surrounding the concert especially painful for the artiste and his team.
“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 also appealed to the public and the media to avoid drawing conclusions while investigations remain underway.
“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.”
The statement further acknowledged the efforts of emergency responders, security personnel, medical teams, venue staff and everyone who assisted during the incident. It also thanked fans for their patience and understanding in the aftermath of the cancellation.
Shatta Wale and the Shatta Movement team, the management added, will cooperate fully with investigators and event organisers as authorities work to determine exactly what caused the crowd crush.
“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 has not yet released an official update on the number of casualties or the outcome of its investigation.
Read the statement below.
