Persib Urges That the Violence Case Against the U-18 Team in Batang Be Legally Processed.

Persib Bandung has confirmed that the alleged assault against the Persib U-18 team entourage at KM 360 Rest Area, Batang, Central Java is completely unjustifiable and must be followed up seriously through formal legal channels. This incident has become a critical concern for club management as it involves youth players currently undergoing structured Football Development training.

Adhitia Putra Herawan, Deputy CEO of PT Persib Bandung Bermartabat, stated that the safety of players, officials, and all team personnel must be treated as the absolute top priority. He emphasized that young athletes have the right to receive protection, feel secure, and be given the opportunity to develop without facing threats of violence.

“This act, especially when targeted at young athletes, cannot be excused under any circumstances and requires serious official follow up,” Adhitia stated in Bandung on Monday.

Adhitia further stressed that any action endangering the safety of team members must never be normalized or dismissed as part of Football Rivalry. Legal intervention is required so that the alleged violations can be properly investigated and processed by the competent authorities.

According to Persib management, the incident did not only involve alleged physical assault and vandalism of the team bus. There are also additional reports of looting of multiple luggage cases belonging to team officials, as well as official match equipment for the Persib Elite Pro Academy (EPA) U-18 squad.

“Physical violence, vehicle vandalism, and the alleged unlawful seizure of other people's property are not and will never be an acceptable form of football rivalry,” he stated.

Adhitia explained that differing club loyalties can never be used as justification to intimidate others, damage public facilities, or steal private property.

“Football rivalry must always stay within the boundaries of Sportsmanship and mutual respect. This sport is supposed to be a space to build achievement, fraternity and good character, not an arena for life-threatening violence,” he added.

Persib management also issued an official appeal to Bobotoh (Persib supporters) to remain calm and avoid reacting to provocation. The club requested fans refrain from any retaliatory actions that may violate the law.

“Management understands the anger and disappointment felt by supporters, but we ask all parties to fully entrust the handling of this case to law enforcement officials,” the statement read.

The club has expressed hope that this case will be handled with full seriousness, so that the alleged violence and all losses suffered by the team entourage can be resolved in full accordance with applicable legal regulations.

Persib also invited all stakeholders of Indonesian Football — including clubs, supporters, competition organizers, and law enforcement authorities — to take active collective action to prevent similar incidents from occurring in future.