By Andrew Kariuki

Authorities in Haiti have arrested seven individuals following a tragic stampede that claimed at least 25 lives during a festival at the historic Citadelle Laferrière.

According to Haiti’s national police, those arrested include five municipal police officers and two officials from the National Heritage Preservation Institute. The arrests were made in the town of Milot, located at the base of the mountain where the citadel stands.

The deadly incident occurred on Saturday as unusually large crowds gathered at the 19th-century fortress, a popular tourist attraction and cultural landmark. Confusion over the exact death toll emerged, with the Ministry of Culture initially reporting 30 fatalities, while police and local authorities later confirmed 25 deaths.

Preliminary findings indicate that the disaster was triggered by overcrowding and poor crowd control measures.

“A scuffle broke out between those already inside who wished to leave, and those outside attempting to enter,” the Civil Protection agency said in its report.

The situation quickly escalated as panic spread among attendees.

“Only one door was open for both entry and exit. This panic caused a massive stampede, resulting in cases of asphyxiation, trampling, and loss of consciousness among the visitors,” the report added.

Milot Mayor Wesner Joseph confirmed that 13 bodies were taken to Sacre-Coeur Hospital, while 12 others were recovered at the scene. At least 25 injured individuals are currently receiving treatment.

In response to the tragedy, the Haitian government has declared three days of national mourning and pledged to cover funeral expenses for the victims.

The incident has raised serious questions about safety planning and crowd management at major public events, particularly at heritage sites that attract large gatherings.