The military rulers of the West African nation of Guinea say at least 56 people were killed in a stampede sparked by clashing fans at a soccer match.

Summary

A stampede at a soccer stadium in Nzerekore, Guinea, killed at least 56 people, including several children, during a tournament honoring military leader Mamadi Doumbouya.

The chaos began after a disputed penalty led to clashes between fans and security forces, who reportedly used tear gas to restore order. Many victims were trampled as fans tried to escape.

Authorities are investigating, while opposition groups criticized the event as politically motivated.

Guinea has been under military rule since a 2021 coup, part of a wider trend of military takeovers in West Africa.