Boma Achenimie 
Three women have been confirmed dead and five children suffered severe fractures and bruises on Friday, January 10 in a stampede at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, Syrian capital, while attempting to get free meals in a charitable activity.
Confirming the tragic incident, the Syrian Civil Defense said the incident occurred during a banquet promoted by a well-known chef, Abu Omari al-Dimashqi, who had invited the public to a free meal in the yard of the historic mosque in the Old City of Damascus.
According to local sources and eyewitnesses, large crowds flocked into the mosque’s courtyard and nearby areas amid an apparent shortage of crowd control measures, leading to chaotic scenes.
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Saturday Telegraph gathered that security personnel arrived at the scene, closing off roads to manage the influx of attendees.
The Umayyad Mosque, which is one of the most iconic landmarks of Damascus, typically hosts religious and cultural events.
Large-scale public gatherings are rarely held there and usually require prior coordination with local officials.
The city’s security and public service structures are still adjusting after the recent political upheaval, following the abrupt end of the previous Syrian government in December 2024.
