The ShattaFest UK concert has been cancelled after a crowd crush outside Copthall Playing Fields in London reportedly left several people injured and raised fears that lives may have been lost.

The management of Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale said the decision was made with the safety and wellbeing of attendees as the overriding priority.

“It is with a very heavy heart that we address the unfortunate events surrounding ShattaFest UK. 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 statement said.

The event, also known as Ghana Party in the Park, was called off on Saturday after police stopped activities at the London venue. Reports from the scene said the venue had exceeded its approved capacity, causing severe overcrowding at one entrance before a stampede developed.

A police officer at the venue announced that the event would not continue, saying the decision had been taken on public safety grounds after “quite a lot of people” were injured.

Organisers initially said the event had been temporarily paused, but later confirmed that it had been cancelled.

Shatta Wale’s management said it was deeply saddened by reports of injuries and the alleged loss of lives. However, it added that it was waiting for official confirmation from the relevant authorities before drawing conclusions about what happened.

“Our hearts are with everyone who has been affected by this tragic situation. 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,” it added.

The team said the artist’s performances had always been focused on bringing happiness, hope and memorable experiences to supporters, making the events particularly painful for Shatta Wale and those working with him.

“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 noted.

Management also urged members of the public and the media not to speculate while investigations continue. It asked people to rely only on verified information released by the authorities.

The statement praised emergency responders, security personnel, medical teams and venue staff for their rapid response. It also thanked fans who had travelled from different locations to attend ShattaFest UK for their patience and understanding.

Shatta Wale and the Shatta Movement will cooperate fully with investigators and event partners as they seek to establish the circumstances that led to the incident.

“This is not the outcome anyone wished for. Today, our focus is not on a concertit 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 statement concluded.

Authorities are expected to continue their investigation into the crowd crush and the events surrounding the cancellation.