2021 AFCON: CAF investigating stadium stampede in Cameroon v Comoros game

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is investigating the circumstances that led to a stampede outside the Olembe Stadium on Monday ahead of the hosts Cameroon game against Comoros.

The hosts defeated the debutants side 2-1 in the ongoing competition.

Cameroon’s game with Comoros took place in Olembe Stadium, of which capacity is 60,000.

However, due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, only 80% of full capacity was allowed to attend; despite that, reports indicate that more than 50,000 supporters tried to enter the stadium.

As a result, a deadly stampede took place in the stadium, resulting in six confirmed deaths and 40 injured individuals, and according to officials, the number of casualties could increase.

In an official statement, CAF addressed the disaster, claiming that they are aware of it and will be investigating to get more details on what happened.

• Full statement:

“CAF is aware of the incident that took place at Olembe Stadium during the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations fixture between hosts Cameroon and Comoros tonight, 24 January 2022.

“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.

“Tonight, the CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe sent the General Secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba to visit the supporters in hospital in Yaoundé.”