The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Referee Association (SVGRA) says it will withdraw the services of its members because of an attack on a match official on Tuesday at Victoria Park.
The official had issued a red card on a player over insulting and abusive language and conduct in the technical area during a match between Awesome FC and Camdonia Chelsea in the SVGFF NCC Premier Division.
“This decision will remain in effect until proper security measures are implemented to ensure the safety of match officials,” the SVGRA said in a press statement.
“At the match, there was no police presence near the technical area where the first attempt to attack the 4th official occurred,” the association said.
It said the coach for Awesome FC, after receiving a red card, aggressively exited the Victoria Park but was able to re-enter shortly after the final whistle.
“Upon returning, he directly confronted the referee team, threatening the 4th official by saying, “You Elron, remember me; mark my words, this isn’t finished.”
“Shockingly, around 50 minutes after the game, the said coach launched a violent attack from behind, using an unknown object to strike the 4th official, causing a cut below his eye. This incident occurred because there were no stationed police officers around the park to prevent such actions,” the association said.
“In light of these serious security breaches and the constant threat to referees’ safety, the SVG Referee Association will not provide officiating services for any matches until adequate security protocols are put in place. The safety of our referees must be guaranteed.
“We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to prevent any further violence against match officials.”