The much-anticipated final of the Cox’s Bazar District Gold Cup football tournament was cancelled on Friday (September 12) due to unforeseen circumstances. The match was set to feature the Ramu and Teknaf Upazila football teams.
Although the stadium’s official capacity is 10,000, a large crowd of around 50,000 spectators gathered to watch the final. By 4:00 pm, many fans had entered the field, exceeding the gallery limits and causing disruption at the gates.
Security forces, led by the Army and Navy, were deployed to manage the situation.
When the match could not start on time, frustrated spectators began causing unrest, vandalizing the stadium and the District Sports Association office.
Subsequently, a large number of law enforcement personnel were stationed around the stadium to bring the situation under control.
The Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mohammad Mahbub Ul Alam, who was present as the chief guest, was escorted to safety.
Officials from both teams expressed disappointment over the cancellation. The tournament, which began on September 1 and involved teams from nine upazilas, had successfully progressed until the final.
Organizers have stated that ensuring spectator safety remains their top priority, and they are making efforts to prevent similar situations in the future.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
