Persib Says Violence Against Young Players Cannot Be Justified

Bandung (ANTARA) - Persib Bandung’s management has stressed that violence against the Persib Under-18 team at the KM 360 rest area in Batang, Central Java, cannot be justified, as it endangered young players undergoing development.

Adhitia Putra Herawan, deputy chief executive of PT Persib Bandung Bermartabat, said young players were entitled to protection, safety and the opportunity to develop without the threat of violence.

“Especially when it involves young athletes, such conduct cannot be justified and must be followed up seriously,” Adhitia said in Bandung on Monday.

He said any action endangering the safety of players, officials and team personnel must be dealt with seriously through legal channels.

He said the incident allegedly involved not only physical violence and damage to the team bus, but also the alleged looting of several suitcases belonging to officials and equipment for the Persib Elite Pro Academy (EPA) Under-18 team.

“Physical violence, damage to vehicles and the alleged taking of other people’s property without permission are not forms of football rivalry,” he said.

“Football rivalry must remain within the bounds of sportsmanship and respect for others. Football should be a space for building achievement, camaraderie and character, not a place for violence that threatens people’s safety,” he said.

Persib urged Bobotoh, the club’s supporters, to remain calm, avoid provocation and refrain from unlawful retaliation.

“Management understands the anger and disappointment of supporters, but asks everyone to leave the handling of the case to law enforcement,” he said.

Persib called on all elements of Indonesian football, including clubs, supporters, competition organisers and law enforcement, to work together to prevent similar incidents and create a safe, sporting and dignified football environment.