Malawi independence day stampede leaves eight dead

At least eight people – including seven children – have been killed in a stampede in Malawi during the southern African country's independence day celebrations at a stadium in the capital.

Police said the stampede occurred when spectators forced open the gates at the stadium where a football match was due to take place during celebrations marking 53 years of Malawi's independence from British rule.

At least 40 others were injured, police said.

"We can now confirm that eight people have died, that is seven children and one adult, and 40 people are injured," said Inspector General of Police Lexan Kachama.

"We expect the number to rise. They forced the gates open and a stampede ensued," said police in a statement.

An eyewitness told Reuters news agency that the stampede occurred as police used tear gas to disperse the crowds that were scuffling to find seats in the stadium ahead of a football match.

"Police lost control," said William Phiri

Police were not immediately able to comment on the witness' account.