At least 56 individuals have lost their lives due to a stampede at a football match held in Nzérékoré, Guinea's second-largest city. This devastating event occurred on Sunday and has prompted Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah to call for calm in the aftermath of the incident. Eyewitness reports indicate that the chaos began after disputes over a referee's decision, which led to clashes between fans of the local team and security forces. According to a doctor who spoke anonymously, the hospital is overwhelmed with victims, many of whom are now housed in makeshift arrangements due to a full morgue.
Tragic Stadium Crush Claims Lives at Guinea's Football Match

Tragic Stadium Crush Claims Lives at Guinea's Football Match
A tragic incident during a football match in Guinea leads to dozens of fatalities and an ongoing investigation into crowd control measures.
Police responded to the escalating tensions by deploying tear gas, resulting in panic among the crowd. Videos shared online depict a harrowing scene of chaos with large groups attempting to escape the stadium and injured individuals lying on the ground, including children. Local journalist Paul Sakouvogi noted that internet access in the area has been restricted, hindering communication about the situation.
In response to the horrific events, Prime Minister Bah announced that an inquiry would be launched to hold accountable those responsible for the disaster. He expressed condolences to the families affected and assured that medical and psychological support would be extended to all injured parties. The match, part of a tournament commemorating President Mamady Doumbouya, reflects a troubling trend in Guinean football, highlighted by recent investigations into corruption within the sport's governance. Senior football official Aboubacar Sampil has faced allegations of enabling violence and disrupting matches, amid growing concerns about security at sporting events.
As the country mourns and seeks justice, the specter of tragedy continues to loom over Guinean football, calling for urgent reforms in crowd management and safety protocols.
In response to the horrific events, Prime Minister Bah announced that an inquiry would be launched to hold accountable those responsible for the disaster. He expressed condolences to the families affected and assured that medical and psychological support would be extended to all injured parties. The match, part of a tournament commemorating President Mamady Doumbouya, reflects a troubling trend in Guinean football, highlighted by recent investigations into corruption within the sport's governance. Senior football official Aboubacar Sampil has faced allegations of enabling violence and disrupting matches, amid growing concerns about security at sporting events.
As the country mourns and seeks justice, the specter of tragedy continues to loom over Guinean football, calling for urgent reforms in crowd management and safety protocols.