In a shocking incident following Gremio Anapolis‘ 2-1 loss to Centro Oeste, goalkeeper Ramon Souza was struck by a rubber bullet fired at close range by a military police officer.
The altercation occurred pitch-side and was captured on video, which quickly went viral.
The video shows players and staff from both Brazilian clubs arguing on the touchline, though the cause of the conflict has not yet been reported.
Amid the chaos, a police officer fired a rubber bullet, hitting Souza in the thigh and causing a severe injury. The goalkeeper received first aid on-site before being rushed to the hospital.
Gremio Anapolis released a statement on their social media platforms condemning the incident and pledging to take action against the responsible officer.
“The Anapolis Guild publicly condemns the unfortunate, ridiculous, and revolting event at Jonas Duarte Stadium this Wednesday night. After the match against Centro Oeste, our goalkeeper Ramon Souza was cowardly hit by a rubber bullet fired by a police officer.”
This horrible, unbelievable, and criminal act by someone who should ensure the safety and integrity of the people at Jonas Duarte Stadium is unacceptable.
“July 10th is now marked by a violent, dirty, and horrible act against one of our players, which will never be forgotten.”
The GEA informs that it will take the necessary measures to ensure the responsible person is punished and that justice is served, so this criminal act does not go unpunished,” the statement read.