The incident took place after Rizespor scored a 97th-minute equalizer in the 1-1 draw at Eryaman Stadium on Monday, as captured by footage from state broadcaster TRT.
Following the assault, Ankaragucu fans stormed the pitch, and Meler was further subjected to kicks after falling, although the identity of his assailants remained unclear. With the assistance of the police, Meler eventually managed to reach the dressing room amidst the chaotic aftermath.
“The Turkish Football Federation has decided to suspend all games in all leagues indefinitely,” the federation said in a statement on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter).
“The related club, the club chairman, club officials and all those guilty of attacking referee Umut Meler will be punished in the strongest terms possible.”
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on X that a detention order has been issued for Koca. He further stated that two individuals have already been apprehended as part of a judicial investigation into the incident.
“Turkish football has been punched shamefully tonight. Everyone involved in this incident will pay the price,” TFF Chairman Mehmet Buyukeksi said, according to TRT.
Halil Umut Meler, a 37-year-old FIFA referee since 2017, officiated the Champions League group game between Lazio and Celtic on November 28.
“Sport means peace and brotherhood. Sport is incompatible with violence. We will never allow violence to take place in Turkish sports,” Turkish President Recep Tayyip wrote on ‘X’.
In Turkey, referees frequently face criticism from club managers and presidents for their decisions; however, they are seldom subjected to violent attacks.
Ankaragucu currently occupies the 11th position in the standings with 18 points, trailing three places behind Rizespor, who have accumulated 22 points after 15 matches.
(With Reuters inputs)
