Guinea: Family Recovers the Bodies of Victims of Estampeade
Photo: Archives
December 3, 2024 Hour: 4:16 pm
Families are currently recovering the bodies of their loved ones from a morgue in the Guinean city of N’zérékoré following a deadly stadium stampede that resulted in numerous fatalities.
Related:
Guinea: Tragic Stampede at Soccer Stadium Claims 56 Lives
Jules Koevogui, a father of one of the victims, recounted his harrowing experience upon discovering his daughter’s body at the morgue. He was informed by someone to come to the morgue, and upon arrival, he found his daughter’s body lying on the floor. He learned that she had been at the stadium during the incident. After witnessing others retrieving their loved ones’ bodies, he requested to do the same and was permitted to take his daughter’s body.
The chaos erupted when fans protested a referee’s decision during a match, leading to thousands attempting to flee the stadium. Local media reports indicate that security forces responded by using tear gas, which exacerbated the situation. Eyewitness accounts suggest that law enforcement did not assist spectators in exiting safely.
Maikan Fofana, who was present during the stampede, described how police blocked exits with their vehicles as people tried to leave after the clash began. This obstruction led to a crush as those who arrived later pushed forward, resulting in many falling and being trampled by others behind them. Fofana reported losing consciousness and later waking up in a hospital.
The tragic event occurred during a match between local teams competing in a national tournament, which attracted tens of thousands of spectators. In response to this disaster, Guinea’s prime minister has stated that authorities are working diligently to determine who is responsible for this incident and ensure accountability.
Autor: OSG
Fuente: EFE-Africanews
