An event aimed at providing employment opportunities turned sour on Thursday, as chaos erupted at the Athlone Stadium. 

The event, called A Day of 1000 Opportunities, was organised by the City of Cape Town and hosted by CapeBPO at the stadium. Anyone between 18 and 34 years was invited to attend, as a direct path to job opportunities with several companies represented at the event.  

At midday on Thursday, the City advised that more than 25,000 people had queued for the occasion that morning.  

At that time, the City advised that no more jobseekers would be admitted to the stadium “due to capacity constraints”.  

It is not exactly clear what led to the chaos that ensued, but several people were later seen in video footage being attended to by police.  

The City further clarified claims that shots were fired outside the stadium.

“Claims that shots were fired on the crowd are false and unfounded. SAPS Public Order Policing made use of a stun grenade to maintain crowd control outside the stadium,” read the City’s statement.  

It further confirmed that several people sustained injuries due to the overcrowding, but noted that they were immediately assisted by emergency services on-site.  

“The City’s Law Enforcement, SAPS and other safety and security personnel remained on site to ensure the safety of all residents and officials in attendance.”  

While the City noted its regret over the incident, it thanked all those who assisted.