Two 'Ultras Malaya' supporters charged with rioting

Two 'Ultras Malaya' supporters, including the group's leader, were charged in the Magistrate's Court here today with rioting during the match between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia in the World Cup 2018/Asian Cup 2018 qualifier at the Shah Alam Stadium last week.

Mohd Ridzuan Ahmad, 36, and Nudzul Haqimi Zulkepli, 31, however, claimed trial after being charged before Magistrate Norshakinah Ahmad Kamarudin.

They were charged together with several others who are still at large with rioting by throwing flares and smoke bombs onto the pitch and letting off fireworks.

They were accused of committing the offence at Quadron C, Shah Alam Stadium, in Section 13 here at around 10.50pm on Sept 8.

They were charged under Section 147 of the Penal Code and are liable to jailed up to two years or fined or both, if convicted.

The 'Ultras Malaya' is a group of hardcore supporters of Harimau Malaya, the national football squad.

Deputy Public Prosecutor N.Parimalaah who appeared for the prosecution suggested bail at RM8,000 bail each.

Counsel Mohamad Zahid Ahmad, who represented both accused, however, appealed for lower bail as Mohd Ridzuan needed to support a child while Nudzul Haqimi has three school-going children.

"RM8,000 is like a sentence when they have not been proven guilty. They have also cooperated during the investigation which shows they are responsible people. As such I am appealing for minimal bail for both of my clients," he said.

Magistrate Norshakinah later allowed bail at RM3,500 in one surety each and set Oct 15 for case mention.

Both posted bail.

The match between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia was stopped by referee Liu Kwok Man of Hong Kong following the wild actions of a group of local spectators.

Liu stopped the match in the 88th minute after a handful of Ultras Malaya supporters fired rocket fireworks and hurled flares and smoke bombs onto the pitch, forcing players and officers to retreat into their changing rooms.

Before the match was stopped, Saudi Arabia were leading 2-1.