Former Malaysia national football team captain Safiq Rahim was targeted in an attack involving a hammer and his car windscreen being smashed by two individuals. The incident took place in Johor state after a training session with Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), a prestigious club owned by the crown prince of the Johor royal family. Safiq was unharmed in the attack, but his car was damaged. He took to Instagram to share details of the incident, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance.
In a post on Instagram, Safiq revealed that he was driving near the JDT training centre when two men on a motorcycle approached his car with a hammer and shattered the rear windscreen. Feeling fearful, he quickly reversed his car as the assailants left the scene. Safiq promptly reported the incident to the police, further highlighting the seriousness of the situation. The attack took place around 10.05 pm and left Safiq shaken by the unexpected act of aggression.
Alistair Edwards, the chief executive officer of JDT, expressed the club’s concern over the incident involving Safiq. He reassured that security measures for the players have been enhanced as a precautionary step. Players have been advised to exercise caution in their surroundings, especially when sharing on social media. Edwards called on the Royal Malaysian Police to urgently investigate the matter, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of individuals involved in professional football.
The attack on Safiq Rahim is the third incident involving footballers in Malaysia within a week, raising concerns about the safety and security of athletes in the country. The series of attacks highlight the vulnerability of high-profile sports personalities and the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard their well-being. The involvement of a hammer in the incident adds a disturbing element to the threats faced by footballers, prompting a reevaluation of security protocols and preventive measures.
As a seasoned footballer and former national team captain, Safiq Rahim’s experience sheds light on the potential dangers faced by athletes both on and off the field. The targeted nature of the attack suggests a deliberate intention to harm or intimidate, underscoring the risks associated with public exposure as a sports figure. The incident serves as a wake-up call for authorities and sports organizations to prioritize the safety and security of athletes, implementing proactive strategies to prevent future incidents and protect individuals from harm.
In response to the attack, Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) has taken decisive steps to enhance the security of its players and staff, recognizing the importance of safeguarding their well-being. By advising players to be vigilant and exercise caution in their interactions and presence online, the club demonstrates a proactive approach to risk management and threat prevention. The call for urgent police investigation underscores the seriousness of the incident and the need for swift action to address the perpetrators and ensure justice for those targeted. Through collective efforts and community support, the football community aims to create a safe environment for athletes to pursue their passion without fear of harm or intimidation.
