12-year-old footballer died on the field in Burundi: cause - ritual coin in his mouth.

According to ТСН: A terrible incident occurred in Burundi during a second division national league match. 12-year-old midfielder of 'Le Gepie du Lac' Igiraneza Aime Gerik collapsed on the field and died while being transported to the hospital. Preliminary reports suggest that the cause of his death was a coin he held in his mouth.

The incident took place during a game against the team 'LLB Amasipiri Never Give Up' at the National Technical Center stadium in Ngarazi. According to eyewitnesses and information from African Public Radio, the footballer used the coin as a 'gris-gris' - a traditional African talisman. Accidentally swallowing it during the match, he suffered asphyxiation and suddenly collapsed.

Consequences of the incident

Despite the efforts of medical teams, they were unable to save the athlete. Igiraneza's heart stopped during transportation to the hospital. This incident has drawn attention to the widespread practice in Burundi of using sorcerers to determine match outcomes.

Players often turn to local beliefs, hoping for magical assistance during the game. The use of foreign objects such as coins, stones, or amulets in the mouth during physical exertion poses a serious threat to life.

Response from the federation and the community

The Football Federation of Burundi expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and the 'Le Gepie du Lac' club. Meanwhile, in their first official statement, sports officials did not mention the cause of death, which sparked criticism and calls from the community for a thorough investigation.

This tragedy highlights the need for educating young athletes about safety during games, as well as warnings about dangerous habits that can lead to serious consequences. Discussions about the role of traditional beliefs in sports are becoming increasingly relevant as communities strive to find a balance between cultural practices and the safety of their children.