The Essendon Football Club is under scrutiny after it was revealed a convicted killer, Kamil Yucel, visited the Bombers' changerooms during a post-match celebration.
The alarming revelation has led to an investigation by the AFL's integrity unit, which issued a caution to the club regarding room access following the sighting of Yucel in Channel 7's "Roaming Brian" segment.
Yucel, convicted of manslaughter in 2016 for the shooting death of aspiring cricketer Rahat Khan, was spotted with delisted Essendon defender Nick Hind after the Bombers' victory over Collingwood in Round 17.
Known to be close friends, Yucel and Hind were chatting in the locker room when commentator Brian Taylor approached them for an interview.
Hind described Yucel as a good friend who "looks after me and [forward Jake] Stringer," clarifying that their connection was purely social despite their different backgrounds.
The AFL's concern centres on the potential implications for player security and club reputations when allowing visitors with criminal records into restricted areas.
An Essendon spokesperson confirmed the AFL had discussed guest access, and Hind has since received a caution regarding Yucel's presence.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton addressed the matter, clarifying that while no criminal activity was reported in this instance, police would continue to liaise with the AFL's integrity unit as needed.
“If there's any way we can assist the AFL to ensure no criminals are involved or associated, we will do that,” Patton said, adding that no criminal offence was linked to Yucel's visit.
Yucel, a former kickboxer, served five years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter following a confrontation with Khan, who reportedly travelled to Yucel's street before the altercation.
The case involved prior tensions with underworld figure Farshad Rasooli, whom Yucel believed was threatening him. Hind, who has since parted ways with Essendon, is expected to continue his career at a local level, while Stringer's future remains uncertain, with a potential trade to Greater Western Sydney on the horizon.