At least 56 people have tragically died following a deadly crush at a football match in Nzérékoré, Guinea's second-largest city, according to reports from the government. Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah described the chaos as a "stampede," which resulted from violent clashes among fans on Sunday. Eyewitnesses reported seeing bodies stretching for miles at the local hospital, with a doctor lamenting that "the morgue is full."
Local media indicated that police resorted to using tear gas when angry supporters from the visiting team, Labé, threw stones at the pitch in response to a controversial referee decision, sparking a panic. Witnesses recounted that the initial conflict caused fans to rush onto the field, overwhelming the area. Social media has depicted chaotic scenes at the stadium, showcasing large crowds attempting to scale walls amid numerous individuals lying unresponsive on the ground, with some appearing to be children.
Journalist Paul Sakouvogi from the local area reported that internet access has been restricted as police maintain a heavy presence outside the hospital treating the injured. Medical staff were reportedly the only individuals permitted inside while others were turned away. Prime Minister Bah expressed his condolences and stated that an investigation is underway to hold those responsible accountable for the tragedy. Full medical and psychological support is promised to the injured.
Thousands of fans were in attendance for the match between Nzérékoré and Labé, which was part of a tournament dedicated to President Mamady Doumbouya, who gained power through a coup in September 2021. This incident raises serious concerns amidst ongoing scrutiny in Guinean football, particularly towards the Football Federation president Aboubacar Sampil, who has faced allegations of corruption and inciting violence in recent months. Sampil has denied any wrongdoing despite ongoing investigations into his actions.
Local media indicated that police resorted to using tear gas when angry supporters from the visiting team, Labé, threw stones at the pitch in response to a controversial referee decision, sparking a panic. Witnesses recounted that the initial conflict caused fans to rush onto the field, overwhelming the area. Social media has depicted chaotic scenes at the stadium, showcasing large crowds attempting to scale walls amid numerous individuals lying unresponsive on the ground, with some appearing to be children.
Journalist Paul Sakouvogi from the local area reported that internet access has been restricted as police maintain a heavy presence outside the hospital treating the injured. Medical staff were reportedly the only individuals permitted inside while others were turned away. Prime Minister Bah expressed his condolences and stated that an investigation is underway to hold those responsible accountable for the tragedy. Full medical and psychological support is promised to the injured.
Thousands of fans were in attendance for the match between Nzérékoré and Labé, which was part of a tournament dedicated to President Mamady Doumbouya, who gained power through a coup in September 2021. This incident raises serious concerns amidst ongoing scrutiny in Guinean football, particularly towards the Football Federation president Aboubacar Sampil, who has faced allegations of corruption and inciting violence in recent months. Sampil has denied any wrongdoing despite ongoing investigations into his actions.
