At least 127 people have been killed, and 180 injured in a riot after a football game at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Indonesia’s eastern city of Malang.
Thousands of fans invaded the pitch as police fired tear gas that triggered a stampede during host Arema FC 3-2 defeat to Persebaya of Surabaya.
Riots broke out at the end of the game as disappointed fans of Arema run onto the pitch throwing objects and literally anything they could lay their hands on at players and football officials.
The agitated angry fans extended their rioting outside the stadium where police vehicles were toppled and set ablaze. The police responded by firing tear gas including into the stands, causing fear and panic among the crowd.
In their bit to avoid the tear gas, fans made their way to the exit where things got escalated as fans suffocated and others trampled amid the chaos.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement “The football world is in a state of shock following the tragic incidents that have taken place in Indonesia at the end of the match between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya at the Kanjuruhan Stadium,”
“This is a dark day for all involved in football and a tragedy beyond comprehension. I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following this tragic incident,” he added.