Erick Thohir Urges Police to Fully Investigate Stabbing of Supporter in Bogor: Safety Is Non-Negotiable

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir has asked the Bogor District Police to fully investigate an armed attack that left a teenager dead after watching the match between Garudayaksa FC and Persib Bandung at Pakansari Stadium, Cibinong, on Sunday (25/10/2026). The incident is a severe blow to efforts to reform national football, which is currently in the process of rebuilding.

The victim, a resident of Kampung Duku, Sukamantri Village, Tamansari District, Bogor Regency, was found lifeless on the roadside with wounds suspected to have been caused by a bladed weapon. The incident adds to the long list of fan violence that should no longer occur in Indonesian football competitions.

Erick, who also serves as Minister of Youth and Sports, said he had contacted the local police chief directly to ensure the investigation proceeds quickly and transparently. He asked the police to investigate whether the act was purely a criminal offense or was triggered by rivalry between supporter groups. "Supporters must be able to return home safely," Erick stressed in a press statement in Jakarta on Monday (26/10/2026).

For Erick, a safe and family-friendly football atmosphere is non-negotiable. Every spectator who comes to the stadium to support their favorite team is entitled to full security guarantees. He considers violence never justified in any context, including in sport.

PSSI, Erick said, has coordinated with the police so that all perpetrators are firmly processed under the law. The step was taken to create a deterrent effect and ensure similar incidents do not recur in the future.

The incident is deeply regrettable given that Indonesian football is on a positive track. The Garuda squad's success in winning the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 proves that football has great power to unite all elements of the nation through massive, peaceful, and proud support. However, violence outside the pitch threatens that momentum.

"Supporters must be able to return home safely," said Erick Thohir, emphasizing the priority of safety in every match.

Erick stressed the importance of synergy between clubs, organizing committees (panpel), fan communities, and the police. According to him, close coordination across all lines is key to creating a conducive match environment. He also reminded that football should be a means of strengthening brotherhood, not an arena for revenge.

The case is a test of PSSI's and security authorities' commitment to eradicating violence in Indonesian football. Previously, various similar incidents have tarnished the image of the domestic competition and caused loss of life. Without consistent law enforcement and improvements to the security system, the risk of further casualties will continue to loom.

Going forward, the public awaits whether the police investigation will uncover the masterminds behind this attack and whether PSSI will tighten security regulations, including imposing strict sanctions on clubs or supporter groups proven to be involved in violence. If not, Indonesian football will only keep spinning in the same cycle of violence.