At least 56 people have died after a stampede at a soccer stadium in Guinea on Sunday, the Associated Press reports.
Authorities in Guinea have confirmed the deaths of 56 people including children, after the stampede broke out when soccer fans clashed over a decision made by the referee. The soccer stadium in the city of Nzerekore was hosting the final of a local tournament, in which the teams Labe and Nzerekore played.
“During the stampede, victims were recorded,” said Guinea's Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah in a statement. According to local media reports, the chaos kicked off after a disputed penalty call caused supporters to start throwing stones. Security deployed tear gas in response. Several people injured in the stampede have been taken to a nearby hospital, with some reportedly in critical condition.
Videos of the chaos have circulated on social media, showing fans of both teams clashing and others attempting to leave the stadium.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the stampede to determine who is responsible for the lives lost. Former Guinea President Alpha Conde, who was ousted by the military in 2021, issued a critical statement following the news of the stampede. "In a context where the country is already marked by tensions and restrictions, this tragedy highlights the dangers of irresponsible organisation," he said, per The Guardian.
