The Cameroon MTN Elite One football match between PWD Bamenda and Fauve Azur ended abruptly on Sunday after gunmen opened fire, triggering a security response that sent players, officials, and spectators fleeing for safety.
The match, counting for the 11th day of play, took place at the Yong Sports Arena in Mile 6, Bamenda. “By halftime, both teams stood locked at 1-1 when sudden gunfire erupted from unknown assailants outside the stadium,” revealed one of the spectators. Security forces swiftly responded, escalating the panic within the arena.
Eyewitnesses report that players and officials rushed off the pitch while fans scrambled for cover as chaos unfolded. It remains unclear if there were casualties or injuries resulting from the incident.
The incident has caused anger between the both teams but some supporters say the political tussle between having the matches in Bamenda or not has prompted such ugly scenes.
“Don’t be suprised someone is behind such to proof a point” said one of the fans.
Authorities have yet to make an official statement on the attack, but the ongoing security crisis in the North West Region has repeatedly affected sporting events. This latest disruption raises concerns about the safety of hosting professional football matches in the conflict-hit area.
