At least 129 people have been killed in serious riots after a football match on the Indonesian island of Java. Police used tear gas to disperse the outraged fans, an official said at an impromptu press conference on Sunday. 34 people died on the field of the Kanjuruhan stadium in East Java, all others in hospitals. There was initially no information about the cause of the violence.
The riots broke out after the first division match between Arema FC and Persebaya FC. After the 3-2 defeat in Malang, thousands of spectators stormed the field. Photos published on tvOne’s website show, among other things, a completely destroyed car in the stadium. Further photos show the square storm and smoke damage in the square and in the stands.
Two members of the police were also among the dead, provincial police chief Afinta said. Most people would have died from lack of oxygen. About 180 people are still in clinics. 13 vehicles were damaged in the riots, including ten police vehicles.
“Sorry for the Disaster”
The football clubs Arema and Persebaya expressed their condolences to the victims and their families. “Arema FC expresses its deepest condolences for the disaster in Kanjuruhan. The management of Arema FC is also responsible for handling the victims, both dead and injured,” said club boss Abdul Haris. The club will set up a crisis center and a victim information center. “To the families of the victims, Arema FC’s management offers sincere apologies and stands ready to offer compensation. The management stands ready to accept proposals on how to deal with the disaster so that many will be saved,” Haris said. .
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has suspended play in the first division for a week. Arema will not be allowed to play home games for the rest of the season. In addition, the association had set up an investigation team that would start work on Sunday. “PSSI regrets the actions of Aremania supporters at Kanjuruhan Stadium. We are sorry and apologize to the families of the victims and to everyone involved in the incident,” said Mochamad Iriawan, President of the Union. The police will be assisted in the investigation.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
