In an alarming incident following a Singapore Youth League match on 11 May 2024, a parent was allegedly attacked with a foldable metal chair. The match featured Albirex Niigata versus Geylang International at Sengkang Secondary School, and it ended with Geylang winning 8-0.
Details of the Incident
The 46-year-old suspect was arrested after the police received a call for assistance shortly after 7.15pm. The victim, a 51-year-old parent of a youth player, suffered significant bruising and cuts near his left eye socket. He was taken to Sengkang General Hospital but was discharged the same night.
Clubs Respond
- Albirex Niigata: The club stated they are in close contact with the victim and confirmed he is recovering, with his vision improving. They condemned any form of violence and reiterated their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for everyone.
- Geylang International: In response, Geylang announced they are conducting a thorough internal review and are cooperating with the Singapore Youth League and authorities. They emphasised that while emotions can run high during matches, violence is unacceptable.
League Stance
The Singapore Youth League addressed the incident on social media, reminding all participants to uphold league rules and refrain from unruly behaviour. They confirmed ongoing investigations and will not hesitate to report any violent acts to the authorities.
Legal Consequences
Those found guilty of causing hurt through rash acts can face severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to one year, a fine up to $5,000, or both. The community is urged to respect the ongoing investigations and avoid spreading unverified information related to the incident.