Police shot tear gas to break up clashes after an Indonesian soccer match, killing 129

On Saturday, about 130 spectators at a soccer game in Malang, Indonesia, were killed after police shot tear gas in an attempt to suppress clashes between fans, resulting in a stampede.

The event occurred after the Sunday evening match in the Indonesian Premier League, when Arema Malang fans were unhappy at their team’s loss. According to accounts, Arema supporters rushed the field following the match.

At a news conference, East Java Police Chief Nico Afinta revealed that thirty-four spectators were killed instantly by asphyxia or trampling as a result of panicked crowds fleeing tear gas at Kanjuruhan Stadium’s exit gate.

Afinta explained, “There was a pileup.” The accumulation process caused shortness of breath and oxygen deficiency.

Afinta told The New York Times that he anticipates the death toll to grow. Afinta stated that as many as 300 individuals were brought to hospitals, but many died en route.

Wiyanto Wijoyo, chief of the Malang Regency health office, confirmed the tragedy to the Guardian, stating, “More than 120 individuals perished due to disorder, overcrowding, trampling, and suffocation.”

According to a press release, the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) will examine the event.

The Australian Broadcasting Channel claimed in 2019 that since 1994, 94 individuals had died due to violent soccer-related incidents in Indonesia.

PSSI representatives did not react promptly to Insider’s request for comment.