Guinea stadium crush kills 56 people after disputed refereeing decision

By Reuters

A controversial refereeing decision sparked violence and a crush at a soccer match in southeast Guinea, killing 56 people, according to a provisional toll, the government said on Monday, as a witness described scenes of chaos.

The fatalities occurred during the final of a tournament in honour of Guinea’s military leader Mamady Doumbouya at a stadium in Nzerekore, one of the West African nation’s largest cities. Fans threw stones, triggering panic and a crush, the government statement said, promising an investigation.

A witness, who had attended the match, said a disputed red card in the 82nd minute of the match kicked off the violence.

“The stone throwing started and the police joined in, firing tear gas. In the rush and scramble that followed, I saw people fall to the ground, girls and children trampled underfoot. It was horrible,” Amara Conde told Reuters by phone.

The crowd rushed to