An unconfirmed number of football fans are reported to have died after a riot broke out at an Indonesian Liga 1 football match between Arema and Persebaya at Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang.
Persebaya emerged 3-2 victors over their rivals Arema in the East Java Derby, prompting a large number of supporters to invade the pitch after the full-time whistle.
Watch the world’s best footballers every week with beIN SPORTS on Kayo. LIVE coverage from Bundesliga, Ligue 1, Serie A, Carabao Cup, EFL & SPFL. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
Riot police responded by using tear gas inside the stadium, as frightening footage shared across social media showed fans scaling over fences to escape the smoke.
Local reports have reported the number of deaths to be over 100.
Akhmad Hadian Lukita, president of the PT Liga Indonesia Baru (LIB), issued a statement in the aftermath.
“We are concerned and deeply regret this incident,” Lukita said.
“We share our condolences and hopefully this will be a valuable lesson for all of us.”
Trossard stars as Brighton reel in Reds | 01:11
MORE COVERAGE
Fans condemned for disgusting behaviour during Australia Cup
PL Wrap: ‘Horrible, horrendous’ Liverpool blasted; Arsenal secure bragging rights over Spurs
‘Next Liverpool manager’: Ange backed for all-time gig as Celtic boss’ stock continues to rise
The remaining Liga 1 fixtures scheduled for the week have been postponed and the Indonesia FA announced Arema would not host any further home games for the remainder of the season.
Indonesia FA (PSSI) president Mochamad Iriawan also released a statement on behalf of the governing body.
“PSSI regrets the actions of Aremania supporters at the Kanjuruhan Stadium,” Iriawan said.
“We are sorry and apologise to the families of the victims and all parties for the incident. For that PSSI immediately formed an investigation team and immediately left for Malang.”
Persebaya’s official Twitter account posted: “Persebaya’s extended family deeply mourns the loss of life after the Arema FC vs Persebaya match. No single life is worth football. We pray for the victims and may the families left behind be given strength.”
