TUE 25 JAN, 2022-theGBJournal- Several news outlets and the Cameroon government put the death toll at eight, with at least 38 severely injured Monday following stampede into the Olembe Stadium in Cameroon during the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations clash between hosts Cameroon and Comoros.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) said they have launched an investigation into the incident, and the CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe have sent the General Secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba to visit the supporters in hospital in Yaoundé.
‘’CAF is currently investigating the situation and trying to get more details on what transpired. We are in constant communication with Cameroon government and the Local Organizing Committee.’’ CAF said in a statement.
The Cameroon President Paul Biya has also launched an investigation into the crush that killed the fans, including a 14 year old.
Witnesses described the scene of the tragic incident as a war zone, with thousands of fans struggling to get into the 60,000 capacity stadium. Video footage seen by theGBJournal show fans scaling fences into the stadium.
Official figures released by Cameroon’s Ministry of Communication following the eventful night said ‘’8 people have died, 31 sustained light injuries and 7 are in serious condition at the moment.’’
FIFA today (www.FIFA.com) sent its ‘’deepest condolences’’ to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following the tragic incident that took place at Olembe Stadium during the Africa Cup of Nations fixture between Cameroon and Comoros.
‘’The thoughts and prayers of the global football community are with the victims, the ones who have been injured in this incident, and all the staff of both CAF and the Cameroonian Football Association (FECAFOOT) at this difficult moment,’’ FIFA said in a statement.
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