Turkish Justice Minister announced today, Tuesday, that a local court has ordered the arrest of Faruk Koçak, president of Ankara Gucu, after he punched referee Halil Umut Melier in the face at the end of a match in the Turkish Premier League. The court also ordered the detention of two other suspects involved in the violence. The Turkish Football Federation stated that it has suspended all local competitions following the "shameful" incident occurring when Koçak attacked referee Melier during the home match for Ankara Gucu against Rizespor on Monday.
Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç mentioned that Koçak and two others were officially arrested on charges of "causing injury to a public employee" after taking their testimonies. He stated on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that "The investigation is ongoing thoroughly." A decision was made to impose judicial control over three other suspects.
Footage broadcasted by the state network (TRT) showed Koçak storming onto the field and punching referee Melier after he blew the final whistle following Rizespor's equalizing goal in the 97th minute at the Eryaman Stadium. After the match, Ankara Gucu fans stormed the field, and referee Melier was also kicked when he fell to the ground, but he eventually managed to reach the locker room with police assistance.
The local federation stated that Ankara Gucu, its president, club officials, and all guilty parties in the assault on the referee "will be punished to the fullest extent possible." Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, remarked that the events following the match were "absolutely unacceptable and have no place in our sport or society. Without match referees, there is no football."
