NexNews — At least 56 people have died and many more have been injured following a deadly crowd crush at a soccer match in Guinea. The incident took place in the southern city of Nzérékoré during a match between the Labé and Nzérékoré teams. Authorities confirmed the death toll on Monday, and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the tragic event.
Videos circulating on social media showed fans scrambling to escape the packed stadium. Prime Minister Bah Oury expressed the government’s sorrow over the incident, emphasizing that hospital services must be able to provide first aid to the injured without disruption. He also called for calm as the situation developed. Further details about what happened inside the stadium are expected in a more comprehensive report.
Witnesses indicated that the chaos began when a referee’s decision to send off a player led to protests and stone-throwing from fans. Police responded by firing tear gas, which escalated the situation, leading to a stampede. Amara Conde, a witness at the stadium, described the horrifying scene where people, including children and women, were trampled underfoot.
The match was part of a tournament organized by Guinea’s military junta, led by Mamady Doumbouya, who is eyeing a presidential run in 2025. The incident has raised concerns over the handling of public events, particularly in a country with ongoing political tensions.
Former leader Alpha Conde criticized the timing of the event, suggesting that it should not have been held given the ongoing restrictions and unrest in the country. Local reports also indicated that the match was organized to support Doumbouya’s candidacy.
