A tragic incident unfolded at a soccer game in Guinea on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least 56 people, including children, after fans clashed over a disputed call by the referee. The stampede occurred at the stadium in Nzerekore during the final of a local tournament honoring Guinea’s military leader, Mamadi Doumbouya.
Local media reports indicated that security forces attempted to use tear gas to restore calm after chaos erupted following the disputed penalty call. Videos from the scene showed fans protesting the refereeing before clashes broke out, leading to a chaotic scene with people running and trying to escape the stadium. Several of the injured are in critical condition and being treated at a regional hospital.
Authorities are conducting an investigation to determine those responsible for the stampede, while the National Alliance for Alternation and Democracy opposition coalition criticized the tournament as a means of supporting Doumbouya’s alleged inappropriate political ambitions. Guinea has been under military rule since President Alpha Conde was ousted in 2021, with growing concerns about a delay in returning to civilian governance in several West African countries.
Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah stated that efforts are being made to restore calm in the region and that an investigation is underway. The tragic incident has shocked the nation and underscored the ongoing challenges facing Guinea as it navigates a complex political transition.
Source
Photo credit www.denverpost.com