In an unprecedented surge of violence directed at athletes in Malaysia, a Malaysian international footballer fell victim to an acid attack, while two other prominent players were assaulted within the span of a week by unidentified assailants.
Selangor FC announced their decision to withdraw from the anticipated curtain-raiser match against Malaysian Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri, southern Johor state.
According to Police criminal investigation chief Mohamad Shuhaily Mohamad Zain, there were notable similarities in the three attacks, indicating that the victims were deliberately targeted. However, investigators have yet to establish a definitive link between the cases.
Faisal Halim, a winger for the Malaysian national team and Selangor FC, currently resides in intensive care due to severe fourth-degree burns sustained in the acid attack perpetrated by two assailants at a shopping mall on Sunday. His condition is reported to be critical yet stable, with impaired movement and speech.
Just three days prior, Akhyar Rashid, another prominent national team player, was assaulted during a robbery outside his residence in eastern Terengganu state upon returning from training. He sustained injuries to his head and legs after being struck with an iron rod, while the perpetrators fled the scene after seizing his money.
On a subsequent evening, former national team captain Safiq Rahim was trailed by two individuals on a motorcycle following a training session in southern Johor state. They later threatened him with a hammer and smashed his car’s windscreen, but he was unharmed.
Shuhaily stated, “Our investigations suggest that the players were surveilled before the attacks, and the assailants operated in pairs in all instances.”
While two individuals were initially apprehended in connection with Faisal’s attack, one was subsequently released.
Police are exploring the possibility that the assaults may be linked to a recent letter addressed to the Malaysian soccer federation (FAM), alleging mismanagement of funds, bribery, and fraud. However, the country’s anti-graft agency has dismissed these accusations as unfounded.
In light of the ongoing investigation, authorities have advised professional footballers to exercise caution. The FAM has recommended that high-profile players consider employing personal security.
In response to the attacks, the Selangor club has initiated a solidarity campaign for Faisal, while Safiq’s Johor team has bolstered security measures for its players.
