Former Ghana international, Michael Essien has described what transpired in Indonesian football over the weekend as 'heartbreaking' and has sent a goodwill message to the people that ended up as victims.
At the Kanjuruhan Stadium last Saturday, home supporters jumped onto the pitch due in a quest to express their displeasure following their side's defeat in a rivalry encounter between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya in the Indonesian topflight championship.
The riots led to the death of 125 people after the security present at the venue fired tear gas in attempt to get the fans off the inner perimeter of the stadium and probably to also curb the situation. Reports say, 30 passed on at the spot with series of injuries.
This unfortunate incident is very similar and could be likened to what happened in Ghana football in 2001, dubbed the 'May 9 Disaster.'
The ex- Black Stars and Chelsea midfielder, who once had a spell in Indonesia with Persib Bandung, took to his Instagram page to pay tribute to the victims of the tragic event.
"Heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers goes out to the victims and their families and friends. #Indonesia"
Series of footballers have paid homage on this same sad event including FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
By: Iddriss Abdul Rahim
