In Indonesia’s East Java province, 174 people lost their lives and more than 100 were injured in the clashes between the supporters of two football teams. It was reported that most of them were crushed to death.
After the match in which Persebaya Surabaya defeated Arema Malang 3-2 in the Indonesian Premier League match, there were many clashes between the fans of the two rival football teams.
East Java Police Chief Nico Afinta said the brawl caused riot police to use tear gas, causing panic among fans.
While hundreds of people rushed to the exit door to avoid being caught by the tear gas, many drowned in the chaos and were trampled underfoot. Authorities stated that 34 people died immediately after the police intervention, and then this number increased to 174.
COMPREHENSIVE INVESTIGATION INSTRUCTIONS
East Java Deputy Governor Emil Dardak said in a statement that the death toll in the stampede rose to 174, and more than 100 injured, 11 of whom were seriously injured, were treated in 8 hospitals in the region.
President Joko Widodo has instructed the Chief of the National Police, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, to conduct a thorough investigation into the stampede.
Making a press statement at the Bogor Presidential Palace in West Java Province, Widodo expressed his deep condolences for the tragedy that occurred, saying, “I am sorry that this tragedy has happened and I hope this will be the last tragedy of football in the country. There should not be another such humanitarian tragedy in the future.” said.
Widodo has instructed the Indonesian Football Federation (PSSI) to temporarily suspend League 1 until security procedures are improved.
Youth and Sports Minister Zainudin Amali also told PSSI Chairman Mochamad Iriawan and Prabowo to thoroughly evaluate safety procedures during the match.