56 dead at Guinea Soccer Match

A controversial refereeing decision led to violence and a deadly crush during a soccer match in southeast Guinea, resulting in at least 56 deaths, according to a provisional toll released by the government on Monday.

The fatalities occurred during the final of a tournament honoring Guinea's military leader, Mamady Doumbouya, at a stadium in Nzerekore, one of the country's largest cities.

Tensions escalated when fans threw stones, sparking panic and a deadly crush, the government said, adding that an investigation would be conducted.

A video authenticated by Reuters showed dozens of people scrambling to escape over high walls. An official from the city's administration, speaking anonymously, said many of the victims were minors caught in the chaos after police began firing tear gas.

Scenes of confusion and distress were reported, with some parents retrieving bodies before they were officially counted. Videos shared online depicted bodies of victims, including several children, lined up on the ground.

Opposition group National Alliance for Change and Democracy blamed the authorities for organising the tournament to boost political support for Doumbouya, accusing them of violating a transition charter ahead of a promised presidential election.

The military junta had not responded to the accusation at the time of the report.