Aboubacar Diakité, known as Toumba, a former Guinean soldier convicted for a stadium massacre in Conakry almost 17 years ago has died in prison.
He passed away died on 25 March 2026 at 04:35 a.m., two days after being urgently hospitalised following a prison-related medical emergency.
The National Directorate of Prison Administration and Reintegration (DNAPR) reported that his death resulted from a strangulated hernia of the linea alba complicated by generalised acute peritonitis.
Toumba, sentenced in July 2024 to ten years in prison for crimes against humanity for his role in the 28 September 2009 massacre at Conakry’s national stadium, was evacuated on 23 March to the Samory Touré Military Hospital for intensive care.
Despite specialised treatment, his condition worsened, leading to his death.
Medical records indicated that Diakité’s health had been fragile for weeks.
A report dated 4 March 2026 by Professors Houssein Fofana (surgeon) and Elhadj Yaya Baldé, (cardiologist), at the Ignace Deen University Hospital Center noted persistent abdominal pain, chronic constipation, epigastric swelling, and sleep disturbances.
Toumba’s death occurred amid heightened tensions in Guinea’s prison system.
In February 2026, a surprise search at Conakry Central Prison uncovered mobile phones, psychotropic substances, and bladed weapons in Diakité’s possession. He reportedly resisted the search and threatened security personnel, prompting his transfer to Coyah Prison on 10 February.
The DNAPR stated that a detailed report will be forwarded promptly to judicial authorities and extended condolences to the deceased’s family and relatives.
Aboubacar Diakité remains one of the most controversial figures in Guinea’s recent political and security history, due to his involvement in the 2009 stadium massacre that claimed hundreds of civilian lives.
AC/Sf/lb/as/APA