Tragic Crowd Surge at Guinea Football Match Results in Fatalities

A crowd surge during a football match in Guinea’s N’zérékoré resulted in many fatalities, reportedly following disputes over a referee’s decision. Authorities, including Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah, are working to restore order as hospitals treat numerous injuries. This incident echoes past tragedies in Guinea’s history involving mass casualties at public events.

Tragic scenes unfolded during a football match in N’zérékoré, Guinea, where a crowd surge resulted in numerous fatalities. Initial reports indicate that clashes arose following a contentious decision made by the referee during a match featuring local teams, N’zérékoré and Labé. Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah urged calm amid the chaos, stating that hospitals are currently accommodating the injured, while emphasizing the government’s commitment to restoring order in the area. Multiple witnesses reported chaotic conditions outside the stadium, with many attempting to escape the surging crowd, leading to a horrifying situation characterized by numerous victims being treated in overwhelmed medical facilities. The event occurred during a tournament commemorating President Mamadi Doumbouya, who came to power through a military coup in September 2021. A history of similar tragedies in Guinea, notably the 2009 stadium massacre that claimed 156 lives, casts a shadow over events at public gatherings in the nation.

Guinea has a troubled history regarding safety at public events, particularly in sporting arenas. The country has witnessed several tragic occurrences where excessive force by security personnel has resulted in severe casualties. The 2009 massacre in Conakry, where security forces opened fire on an opposition gathering, serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers at large public events. The current incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding crowd control and the safety of spectators in Guinean stadiums.

The incident in N’zérékoré underscores the dire need for effective crowd management and safety protocols at public events in Guinea. With witnesses recounting chaos and fear during the match, authorities must reflect on past tragedies to ensure that such loss of life does not recur. Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah’s call for calm is a pivotal first step in addressing the aftermath of this event while ensuring the safety of the populace in future gatherings.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk