Guinea Court Convicts Ex-Junta Leader Camara for 2009 Stadium Massacre

Former junta leader Moussa Dadis Camara and seven military commanders were found guilty of crimes against humanity for their role in a 2009 massacre in Guinea. Charges included murder, rape, and torture. Camara received a 20-year prison sentence. Compensation was awarded to victims' families and survivors.

A court in Guinea on Wednesday convicted former junta leader Moussa Dadis Camara and seven other military commanders of crimes against humanity for their roles in a 2009 stadium massacre.

The charges, initially including murder, rape, torture, and kidnapping, were reclassified as crimes against humanity. Four others were found not guilty.

Camara, who had fled from prison only to be recaptured, was handcuffed to 20 years in prison. Despite maintaining his innocence, he showed no emotion as he stood in traditional attire.

Lieutenant Aboubacar Sidiki Diakite, also known as 'Toumba,' received a 10-year sentence for cooperating with the court. Colonel Moussa Tiegboro Camara got 20 years.

The massacre saw more than 150 civilians killed and many more injured during a pro-democracy rally. Women were brutally raped by security forces, as prosecutors disclosed. The court awarded families and survivors substantial compensation.

(With inputs from agencies.)