Faruk Koca, who punched Halil Umut Meler, faces a request for up to 13 years in prison.

The prosecutor presented his opinion in the case where 4 defendants, including former Ankaragücü Club President Faruk Koca, are being tried for attacking referee Halil Umut Meler.

UP TO 13 YEARS OF IMPRISONMENT REQUESTED

For the defendant Faruk Koca, a prison sentence of up to 13 years is requested for the crimes of 'Threat', 'Intentional injury causing a bone fracture', and 'Violation of the Law on the Prevention of Violence and Disorder in Sports'.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Faruk Koca, the President of MKE Ankaragücü Club, attacked referee Halil Umut Meler with a punch after the match against Çaykur Rizespor, which ended in a 1-1 draw last season. Meler, who fell to the ground from the blow, was also kicked by some individuals while on the ground. The Ankara West Chief Public Prosecutor's Office initiated an investigation against all suspects involved in the act of violence against the referee after the match, as well as the fans who entered the field, for 'Violation of the Law No. 6222 on the Prevention of Violence and Disorder in Sports' and 'injury and threat to a public official due to the performance of their public duty'.

As part of the investigation, Koca and 3 others were referred to the courthouse after their procedures at the police station. In his defense, Faruk Koca stated that he did not accept the accusations against him, saying, "This incident occurred due to the referee's wrong decisions and provocative behavior. My intention was to verbally react to the referee and spit in his face. During this time, I slapped the referee in the face. The slap I delivered does not cause a fracture. After the slap I delivered, the referee stood for about 5-10 seconds, then threw himself to the ground. Due to my heart condition, I was immediately removed from the scene. I am not aware of any other events that took place."