Fifty-six people lost their lives, and several others were injured in a stampede at a soccer stadium in southern Guinea on Sunday, following violent clashes between fans, according to a government statement released Monday.
Authorities are investigating to determine responsibility for the tragedy, said Communications Minister Fana Soumah in a statement broadcast on national television.
The stampede occurred as security forces tried to control the escalating violence among fans in the overcrowded stadium. Local media reported that tensions flared after a disputed penalty led to stone-throwing by angry supporters, prompting security forces to deploy tear gas. Tragically, several of the victims were children, and many injured remain in critical condition at a regional hospital.
Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah addressed the incident on X (formerly Twitter), confirming the loss of lives without specifying numbers. He assured that regional authorities are working to stabilise the situation.
The National Alliance for Alternation and Democracy, a coalition of political parties, condemned the disaster and demanded an investigation. The coalition criticised the tournament, claiming it was organised to support the “illegal and inappropriate” political ambitions of Guinea’s military leader.
Since a 2021 coup ousted President Alpha Conde, the military has governed Guinea, citing a need to restore order. However, military leader Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya has faced criticism for unfulfilled promises and delayed plans to transition to civilian rule, similar to other West African nations under military regimes.
Videos from the scene captured the chaos, with fans protesting on the field, scaling fences to escape, and others running for safety. Distressing footage also showed injured individuals lying in a hospital as bystanders tended to them.
This tragic event highlights the pressing issues of crowd management and stadium safety in Guinea, with the country now mourning the victims and seeking accountability.
