Zurich, Oct 2 (UNI) FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Sunday said the Indonesia stadium stampede is a "tragedy beyond comprehension" and the death of at least 174 people "is a dark day for all involved in football.
"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," FIFA President said.
"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.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, those who have been injured, together with the people of the Republic of Indonesia, the Asian Football Confederation, the Indonesian Football Association, and the Indonesian Football League, at this difficult time," Infantino said.
After home team Arema FC was defeated 3-2 against Persebaya Surabaya then the frustrated supporters of the losing home team invaded the pitch in Malang in the province of East Java late on Saturday.
Police fired tear gas in an attempt to control the situation, triggering the stampede and cases of suffocation, Jakarta post quoted East Java police chief Insp. Gen. Nico Afinta.
Two police officers were also among the dead, the police chief said.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo expressed his condolences regarding the tragedy and ordered police and the PSSI to conduct a thorough investigation. Games of the Indonesian football league will be suspended until further notice.
UNI BAV