At least 56 dead in tragic stadium crush during Guinea football match

A horrific stampede at a football match in Guinea has left at least 56 dead, with witnesses recounting violent clashes and chaotic scenes

At least 56 people lost their lives in a devastating crush at a football match in Nzérékoré, Guinea’s second-largest city, as clashes broke out among fans, the government confirmed. Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah described the incident, which occurred on Sunday, as a "stampede" and urged the public to maintain calm. Medical sources reported a dire situation at local hospitals, stating that the morgue was filled with bodies, while injured individuals lay on the hospital floors due to overwhelming numbers.

According to local reports, the unrest began when supporters of the visiting team, Labé, threw stones onto the pitch, incited by a contentious decision made by the referee. Eyewitnesses recounted how the situation escalated rapidly, culminating in many fans invading the playing field. Disturbing footage circulating on social media depicts the mayhem outside the stadium, featuring large crowds scrambling against walls, as numerous lifeless bodies scattered the ground, some reported to be children.

Local journalist Paul Sakouvogi highlighted the heightened tensions, revealing restricted internet access in the area and increased police presence guarding the hospital where the injured were taken. "Only medical personnel were allowed through," he said, while others were turned away. In light of the tragedy, Prime Minister Bah announced that an investigation will be launched to identify those responsible for the chaos, expressing his condolences to the victims' families and promising full medical and psychological support for the injured.

The match, part of a tournament honoring President Mamady Doumbouya, drew significant crowds, leading to the unfortunate events. The Guinean football scene has faced greater scrutiny recently, particularly after investigations into corruption and violence surrounding powerful figures in the sport. In July, Aboubacar Sampil, the head of the country's football governing body, became embroiled in controversy over serious allegations, including facilitating violence and corruption in matches, which he has consistently denied.