Dozens Killed in Clashes during Soccer Match in Guinea
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Violence erupted during a soccer match in Nzerekore, Guinea, leaving dozens dead and prompting condemnation from the government.
Dozens of people were killed on Sunday in clashes at a soccer match between the Labe and Nzerekore teams in Nzerekore, Guinea's second-largest city, according to media reports.
The exact death toll remains unclear. Agence France-Presse (AFP), citing local hospital sources, reported "dozens dead," with one doctor estimating the number to be "around 100."
Prime Minister Bah Oury condemned the incident in a statement on X, saying, "The government deplores the incidents that marred the football match between the Labe and Nzerekore teams this afternoon in Nzerekore."
The government called for calm and urged citizens to allow hospital services to provide first aid to the injured.
The cause of the violence has not been confirmed. However, AFP quoted a witness who said clashes began following a disputed referee decision that led to fans storming the field.
A doctor at the local hospital described a grim scene, with the facility and morgue overwhelmed by casualties.
The match was part of a tournament honoring Col. Mamady Doumbouya, Guinea's military leader who came to power in 2021.
Nzerekore, a city with a population of approximately 200,000, lies about 555 miles southeast of Guinea's capital, Conakry.
Further details are expected as the government continues its investigation.
