Indonesia announces independent probe into soccer stadium disaster
Jakarta, Oct 3 (EFE).- People wept and left flowers outside Kanjuruhan stadium on Monday as the Indonesian government announced an independent investigation into the weekend’s soccer stampede in which at least 125 people died in one of the world’s deadliest sporting disasters.
“The police are asked to immediately reveal the perpetrators involved in criminal acts” for possible prosecution, Security Minister Mahfud MD said at a press conference, adding that an “evaluation of security administration” also be carried out in the short term.
Mahfud said the authorities are also investigating the veracity of videos circulating of the incident in which those responsible for security “seemed to have acted excessively and outside their authority.”
The team of investigators – including ministry officials, professional soccer organizations, observers, media professionals and academics – will be formed in the next 24 hours and coordinated by the security minister.
The investigation is expected to be completed in two or three weeks.
National Police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo separately told reporters Monday that police are investigating 18 officers who used tear gas, and are analyzing footage from 32 security cameras inside and outside the stadium to identify vandals.
Thousands of Arema FC fans stormed the pitch on Saturday after a 2-3 loss to Persebaya Surabaya at Kanjuruhan stadium in Malang, East Java.
Security officers responded with tear gas, sending spectators fleeing for the exits, causing a stampede and crush.
At least 125 people died, including 17 children, and more than 320 were injured.
Most of the victims succumbed due to suffocation and trampling, according to hospital sources.
Following the tragedy, the Indonesian league temporarily suspended all scheduled matches. EFE
sh-nc/tw
