In FIFA Stadium Safety And Security Regulations, Tear Gas Has Been Banned, But Why Did It Appear In Kanjuruhan Malang?

Security forces fired tear gas to dispel supporters. (Photo via Antara/Ari Bowo Sucipto)

JAKARTA - The use of tear gas by security forces during the tragedy at the Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang, has sparked a polemic. The reason is, the use of tear gas in FIFA rules is apparently not allowed.

The ban is contained in the FIFA Stadium Safety and Security Regulations. Article 19 b states: no firearms or crowd control gas shall be carried or used. The sentence means that firearms or gas for crowd control are prohibited from being carried and used.

For this reason, many parties questioned the decision by the authorities to fire tear gas. The move was deemed to have violated the rules of international football.

Amnesty International Indonesia explained that exposure to tear gas causes a burning sensation and triggers watery eyes, coughing, tightness in the chest and respiratory problems, and skin irritation.

"In many cases, the effects of tear gas begin to be felt within 10 to 20 minutes. However, the effects of tear gas have different effects on each person. Children, pregnant women and the elderly are more susceptible to its effects," wrote Amnesty International Indonesia. in the description.

The degree of poisoning may also vary depending on the product specifications, the quantity used, and the environment in which the tear gas was fired. Prolonged contact may pose several health risks.

The East Java Regional Police Chief, Inspector General of Police Nico Afinta, confirmed that the police fired tear gas. He said it was done because the audience took to the field and carried out anarchic actions and endangered safety.

"Because of the tear gas, they went outside to one point, at the exit. Then there was a buildup. During the buildup there was shortness of breath, lack of oxygen," Nico said, as quoted by Antara.

The Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora), Zainudin Amali, also highlighted the use of tear gas in the Malang Kanjuruhan tragedy. He said, this point is one that will be investigated.