At least 56 people have died in a tragic crush during a football match in Nzérékoré, Guinea, according to government reports. The dire situation unfolded on Sunday as clashes erupted between rival fans, leading to a chaotic stampede that resulted in numerous casualties. Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah described the incident as a "stampede" and appealed for calm amidst the turmoil.
Eyewitness accounts and reports from local media indicated that tensions escalated after supporters of the visiting Labé team threw stones at the referee, resulting in unrest both in the stands and on the pitch. A doctor, who preferred to remain anonymous, described harrowing scenes, mentioning, "bodies lined up as far as the eye can see in the hospital," with the morgue already at full capacity.
Videos circulating on social media painted a picture of chaos outside the stadium, with large groups trying to breach the walls and many unconscious individuals on the ground, including children. Although the BBC has been unable to verify these clips, local journalist Paul Sakouvogi noted that internet access in the area is restricted, complicating the dissemination of information regarding the incident. Police have reportedly been controlling access to the hospital where the injured are being treated.
Prime Minister Bah expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and announced the initiation of an inquiry to hold responsible parties accountable. He also pledged medical and psychological support for the injured. The match, part of a tournament meant to honor President Mamady Doumbouya, drew thousands to the stadium, which became a site of horror instead.
This event also highlights the recent scrutiny surrounding figures in Guinean football. Aboubacar Sampil, President of the country's football governing body Feguifoot, is currently under investigation regarding corruption and violence related to football. The tragedy at the match occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the sport and a demand for accountability within the system.
