Update: Organizers of the controversial #8ALA8 festival arrested

Jordan

Published: 2018-09-24 10:04

Last Updated: 2024-03-28 20:01


Girls and boys as young as 11 attended the event. (Facebook)
Girls and boys as young as 11 attended the event. (Facebook)

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities shut down Seven Hills restaurant on Sunday, where the controversial #8ALA8 festival was held.

A source from the Ministry of Interior said on Monday that two individuals from the restaurant and two persons from the company that organized the festival were arrested this afternoon and have been set bail.

It was claimed that dozens of young girls were sexually harassed at Friday’s “family-friendly” event, and some even said that they were raped.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry said:

“After taking into consideration the inappropriate photos and videos shared on social media of what took place at one of Amman’s restaurants, the ministry took legal action against the venue and their case will be presented to a specialized committee, which will look into the incident during their weekly meeting and discuss the measures that should be taken to punish the restaurant, including revoking its license.”

On Friday, the #8ala8 went viral in Jordan, after social media users shared what they described as “filthy, shameful and disgraceful” photos and videos of “indecently-dressed girls” and “drunk, mischievous boys.”

In one video, a young girl was seen dancing provocatively with an older boy in a revealing outfit, while another girl donning what was described as a "skimpy outfit" was filmed sitting on the shoulders of a young boy, before suddenly turning around and confronting someone, after seemingly being inappropriately touched by them from behind.

The organizers of “8ALA8” had promoted the event as suitable for children, young men and families, promising attendees the biggest colour festival in the Kingdom, karaoke competition, gaming championships, anime and cosplay booths, giveaways, food and a DJ party.

However, the event certainly required parental guidance and police presence, as alcohol was consumed by many of the youngsters who were in attendance.

Interior Minister Sameer Mubaidin confirmed on Sunday that Seven Hills restaurant served alcohol during the 8ALA8 festival, which the organizers did not obtain a license for, meaning both the restaurant and the organizers were guilty of violating the law.