A deadly stampede erupted at a soccer stadium in Nzerekore, southeast Guinea, on Sunday, leaving multiple people dead after violent clashes between fans. The incident occurred during a match between the Labe and Nzerekore teams.
Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah confirmed the tragedy, stating that the government deeply regretted the incidents that marred the football match. While the exact number of fatalities remains unconfirmed, an opposition group claimed dozens of people had died in the crush, including children.
Videos circulating online showed victims lying lifeless on the ground, with some unverified footage depicting fans desperately scrambling over the stadium walls in panic. Reuters has yet to authenticate the videos or verify the death toll.
Local media reported that the stampede followed a fight between spectators, triggered by a controversial decision made by the referee. Tensions escalated quickly, leading to chaos and panic in the stands, as police responded with tear gas.
The National Alliance for Change and Democracy, an opposition group, has blamed local authorities for their handling of the situation, saying they bear significant responsibility for the tragic events.
The match, which was the final of a tournament commemorating Guinea’s military leader Mamady Doumbouya, ended in tragedy as authorities worked to restore order in the aftermath. The full extent of the injuries and deaths is still being assessed.
