Over a 100 lost their lives as a clash triggered between fans amid a football match in N’Zerekore, which happens to be Guinea’s largest city. In a video surfaced on social media, chaos prevailed at the scene as fans were seen climbing the fence to escape getting hurt. Reportedly, a contentious decision from a referee triggered violence.
The chaotic scenes in N’Zerekore likely comes on the back of a political instability in the country. The football match was reportedly part of a tournament to pay tribute to Guinea’s Junta leader Mamady Dombouya, who assumed power via a coup in 2021 and called himself as the President. Dombouya, who reportedly officially took the oath as interim President in October 2021, overthrowing Alpha Conde.
However, Dombouya’s rule is characterised by an authoritarian rule, with many of the opposition leaders facing imprisonment and exile. Meanwhile, football tournaments have become a regularity in the country as the Presidential elections is slated to take place the following year.
Doctor offers grim picture of the condition of people in Guinea
A doctor told AFP that at least 100 have been found dead and that the morgue is overflowing.
“There are bodies lined up as far as the eye can see in the hospital. Others are lying on the floor in the hallways. The morgue is full.”
According to AFP, here’s what a witness said:
“It all started with a contested decision by the referee. Then fans invaded the pitch.”
Witnesses have also revealed that the protesters set the N’Zerekore police station on fire.
