Tragedy struck at a soccer stadium in southern Guinea as a stampede resulted in the deaths of 56 people and left several others injured. The incident occurred during a local tournament final match between the Labe and Nzerekore teams in honor of Guinea’s military leader, Mamadi Doumbouya.
The chaos erupted following clashes between fans, with reports indicating that a disputed penalty incited anger among supporters, leading to stone-throwing and subsequent use of tear gas by security forces. This escalated tensions, causing a stampede that claimed the lives of numerous individuals, including children.
Videos from the scene depicted a scene of pandemonium, with fans protesting the refereeing decisions before chaos ensued and people rushed onto the field. Many attempted to flee the stadium, with some resorting to jumping over high fences in a bid to escape.
Local media reported that several injured individuals, some in critical condition, were receiving treatment at a regional hospital. The National Alliance for Alternation and Democracy opposition coalition has called for an investigation into the incident, alleging that the tournament was organized to support the political ambitions of the military leader, which they deemed inappropriate.
Guinea has been under military rule since the ousting of President Alpha Conde in 2021, with Mamadi Doumbouya assuming leadership. The military's presence in various West African countries, including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, has raised concerns about the delay in the transition to civilian governance.
While Doumbouya has defended his actions as necessary to prevent chaos and criticized the previous government for unfulfilled promises, he has faced criticism for failing to meet public expectations. The authorities are conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic stampede at the soccer stadium in Nzerekore.
