Officer investigated for 'pushing woman down stairs' during crowd crush at Asake gig

16 December 2022, 19:17 | Updated: 16 December 2022, 19:22

A police officer is being investigated after he was accused of shoving a woman down steps during a crowd crush at the Brixton O2 Academy.

Eight people were rushed to hospital after being hurt in the incident at an Asake gig late on Thursday. At least one remains in a critical condition.

Social media was packed with videos of a people trying to smash doors to the venue as a large group assembled outside, with ticketless fans trying to get entry to see the Afrobeats singer.

Organisers called off the gig after a stampede outside as police tried to get control of the situation.

But one video appeared to show an officer shove a woman down some steps during the chaos.

The Met Police Gold Commander in the incident, Ade Adelekan, said: "I am aware of video being shared on social media.

"Where force has been used by police officers, those officers know they have to be accountable for their actions.

"The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards will view all material, including body worn video footage from the officers at the scene."

A spokesperson for the Independent Office for Police Conduct said: "We are aware of the incident at the O2 Academy in Brixton, and the Metropolitan Police Service has advised it will be referring the matter to us.

"We will assess the available information, including footage of the incident, to determine what further action may be required."

It was estimated some 3,000 people had massed outside the O2 Academy with some fans fearing for their lives during the crush.

People present had criticised the police response, with some complaining of being left in the cold.

"I left my house to enjoy Asake, ended up having a panic attack in the queue because of the stampede and people not acting accordingly. I was in literal tears, scared for my life. Worst experience of my life," wrote one on Twitter.

Asake apologised, writing on Instagram: "My heart is with those who were injured last night and caused any form of discomfort. I pray you get well soonest.

"I am also in the process of reaching out to individuals. I still do not have the full brief from the venue management themselves as to what led to the disruption at the entrance of The Brixton Academy, but we are thankful that all was peaceful at the end.

"For my people who enjoyed the beginning of my performance, I am sorry that it was cut short. Thank you for your unbelievable love London. I love you too much! I'm looking forward to seeing you again in a bit!"