At least 56 people, including children, have tragically lost their lives following a stampede at a soccer stadium in Nzerekore, Guinea. The incident occurred during the final match of a local tournament on Sunday, where teams from Labe and Nzerekore faced off.
Chaos Erupts Over Controversial Referee Call
According to officials, the stampede was triggered by clashes among fans after a disputed penalty decision. Local media reports suggest that tensions escalated when supporters began throwing stones, prompting security forces to deploy tear gas. This led to panic and a deadly rush as attendees scrambled to escape the chaos.
Casualties and Response
Guinea’s Prime Minister, Amadou Oury Bah, confirmed the death toll in a statement, calling the incident a devastating loss. “During the stampede, victims were recorded,” he said. Several injured individuals were transported to a nearby hospital, with some reported to be in critical condition.
Videos circulating on social media show harrowing scenes of fans clashing and others frantically trying to leave the stadium.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine accountability for the tragedy. Former Guinea President Alpha Conde, who was ousted in 2021, criticized the incident as a failure of event organization. “This tragedy highlights the dangers of irresponsible organization,” Conde said.
A Nation in Mourning
This incident adds to the ongoing challenges faced by Guinea, a nation already grappling with political tensions. The stampede serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety and proper planning at large public events.
Stay connected to WrapUp TV for updates on this heartbreaking story and the ongoing investigation.
