KUALA LUMPUR: A shocking incident occurred during a football match in Puchong, Selangor, when a referee was assaulted by a player after a contentious decision.
A 42-second video of the altercation, showing the referee being punched by an individual, went viral on social media on Dec 16.
Serdang police chief Assistant Commissioner AA Anbalagan confirmed receiving a report from a 38-year-old local man, the referee involved in the incident.
He said the assault took place on Sept 15 at 7.10pm, during a match at the Puchong Jaya football field.
According to the report, the attacker, who was known to the referee, became angered after the official awarded a penalty to the opposing team and retaliated by striking him.
He said the police had opened an investigation under Section 160 of the Penal Code for causing a public brawl.
If found guilty, the assailant could face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to RM1,000, or both.
Anbalagan said the case was still under investigation, and authorities are urging the public to avoid speculation or comments that could disrupt the ongoing inquiry.
The police assured that they were treating the matter with the utmost seriousness and will follow all necessary procedures to ensure justice is served.