Tragic Clashes During Football Match in Guinea Result in Dozens of Deaths
At least dozens of people have died following violent clashes during a football match in Nzerekore, southeastern Guinea, on December 1, 2024. Medical sources report that the death toll could be as high as 100, with bodies lined up in hospitals and morgues overwhelmed. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene where fans stormed the pitch after a controversial referee decision, leading to a violent crackdown by security forces.
The match was part of a pro-junta tournament dedicated to General Mamady Doumbouya, the leader of Guinea's military council, who came to power after a coup in September 2021. This tournament has been viewed as a political maneuver to bolster Doumbouya's potential candidacy in upcoming presidential elections. Eyewitnesses noted that the situation escalated when fans began throwing stones at the referee, prompting security forces to respond with tear gas. This led to a stampede as spectators rushed towards the stadium exits, resulting in numerous fatalities from asphyxiation and crushing.
Government Response and Ongoing Investigations
As of Sunday evening, the Guinean government has not issued any official statement regarding the tragedy. The lack of communication has raised concerns among the public and media about accountability and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Videos circulating on social media depict the aftermath of the clashes, showing the distressing scenes of bodies and chaos in the streets. The situation remains fluid as local authorities and medical personnel continue to assess the aftermath of this tragic event.
