Ankara prosecutor launches investigation after child targeted at football match

During a Gençlerbirliği vs. Fenerbahçe match at Eryaman Stadium, a 4-year-old boy was targeted by a spectator for wearing a Fenerbahçe jersey. The individual, identified as Şenel Akdemir, reportedly pressured the child and forced the removal of the jersey despite interventions from bystanders and police. A police officer assisted the child by placing a police shirt over him to de-escalate the tension.

The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has launched a judicial investigation into Akdemir for violations of the Law on Prevention of Violence and Disorder in Sports and for the crime of “depriving a child of their liberty.” Akdemir, who has a significant social media following, has also been identified as a promoter of unscientific alternative medical treatments.

In response to the incident, Gençlerbirliği Spor Kulübü issued a statement condemning the behavior as disrespectful to the club's 103-year history and invited the child and his father to their facilities. Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü also expressed condemnation and invited the young fan, Göktuğ Alımcı, and his father to attend their upcoming match against Olympique Lyon in Istanbul.