Four people have been hospitalized in critical condition after a crowd crush at the O2 Brixton Academy last night (Thursday, December 15) at a performance by Nigerian Afro beats singer and songwriter Asake.

Over 3,000 people without tickets reportedly stormed the venue on Stockwell Road at around 9.30pm according to eye witness.

Eight people were rushed to hospital by ambulance, four of whom are in critical condition. A number of others were treated at the scene by paramedics. The venue was locked off by police after people appeared to try and push and shove their way in without tickets, with windows left smashed. In the crush outside, a video appears to show a woman being thrown down a small flight of stairs by police, which incenses the crowds further.

A member of Asake’s team told fans: “3,000 people have broken the door outside, and because of security, police have asked us to close the show. We apologise to you. This is nothing to do with us. It’s nothing to do with us, OK? Or the promoter. This is basically- listen to what I am saying.”

Asaka then took the microphone to appease fans and said: “Hold up people please, for your own safety, people have breached the door. They have broken it and security are trying to… please… alright we’ll be back.” He adds that people can get refunds on tickets.

An urgent investigation is under way by the Met Police. A cordon remains in place at the location as officers continue work at the scene. Nobody has been arrested.

The force has asked people not to share any potentially distressing videos and addressed the issue of force used by police officers.