Dubai Police arrest DJ, two others for throwing party in breach of Covid-19 regulations

Dubai Police have arrested a DJ, the general manager of a tourism company and its marketing director for organising a party for more than 100 guests in a closed place in violation of Covid-19 guidelines.

They were arrested after a video of the crowded party started circulating across social media platforms, confirmed Brigadier Jamal Salem Al-Jallaf, director of the General Department of Criminal Investigations at Dubai Police

“The organisers, who had not acquired necessary permission from competent authorities, clearly violated social distancing rules and the announced precautionary measures against coronavirus, and put the lives of many at risk,” he said.

Under law, a fine of Dhs10,000 is also applicable to whoever invites or organises gatherings, meetings, private and public celebrations or is present in large groups at public places or private farms.

Al-Jallaf stressed that the Dubai Police will take strict action against all violators.

“These measures have been put in place to protect members of the community and curb the pandemic. We call upon all tourism companies, local businesses and community members to support efforts to limit the spread of Covid-19, and to maintain social distancing and refrain from organising or attending crowded events that could contribute to spreading the virus,” he added.

Authorities in Dubai have been taking strict action against those found violating precautionary measures after the UAE reported a sharp increase in Covid-19 cases in the last few days. Some restaurants have been shut down and other outlets have been fined for breaking guidelines.

Read: Covid-19: Dubai Tourism closes 4 establishments and issues final warnings to 19 more

The UAE government has also issued an updated list of penalties for those found flouting Covid-19 safety regulations.

Read: UAE issues updated list of fines for offenders of Covid-19 safety measures