In brief
A soccer match in Guinea escalated into deadly violence, with reports estimating up to 100 fatalities as fans clashed following a referee's decision. Prime Minister Bah Oury has condemned the incidents and urged calm as investigations continue.
At least dozens of people were killed during a soccer match in Guinea on Sunday, as clashes erupted between fans in the city of Nzerekore, home to the second-largest population in the West African nation. Early reports suggest that the death toll may reach as high as 100, according to local health officials.The violent incident occurred during a game between the Labe and Nzerekore teams, part of a tournament dedicated to honoring Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who came to power in a military coup in 2021. Tensions flared when a controversial call made by the referee incited fans, leading to a mass invasion of the field.Prime Minister Bah Oury condemned the outbreak of violence in a statement shared on social media platform X. “The government deplores the incidents that marred the football match between the Labe and Nzerekore teams this afternoon in Nzerekore,” he declared, urging for calm to ensure that emergency medical services could operate without interference.A local doctor reported that the hospital was overwhelmed with casualties, stating that both the hospital and morgue were quickly filling up with victims of the violence. As investigations continue, officials emphasize the importance of maintaining order in the community.Nzerekore has an estimated population of 200,000 residents and is located approximately 555 miles southeast of the nation’s capital. This situation is still unfolding, with further information expected to be released as it becomes available.
