JakartaGlobe-Oct 2
The president of the world football governing body FIFA described the riot that killed at least 174 people after a match in the East Java town of Malang on Saturday night as a dark day 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,” Gianni Infantino said in a statement on Sunday. “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. The Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry said at least 17 children were among the deaths. An eye witness identified only as Joko said the stadium was blanketed by thick smoke and gas when the situation worsened. “It was very painful in my eyes. I could hardly breathe.” Chief Security Minister Mohammad Mahfud MD said police were forced to use tear gas because thousands of Arema supporters invaded the pitch and attempted to attack players and match officials. “There were more and more of them on the pitch so police had no choice but to tear gas them to remain in control,” Mahfud told local news website Detik. Two officers assigned to secure the match were killed in the incident, police have said. Read more at: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/fifa-president-mourns-dark-day-in-football-after-east-java-tragedy
