Hundreds of people dancing on the beach, a DJ console, sound systems, strobe lights and tickets sold for 20 euros each. But without the license required to hold a public event. That is the picture that emerged from inspections which led the Municipality of Riccione to order a seven-day closure for Mojito Beach, a venue along the Goethe promenade.
The order, issued by the local Economic Activities department, will be in force from 8pm on Saturday, August 8 until 8pm on August 15. During this week the venue will not be allowed to open to the public. The beach establishment itself, which operates under a separate concession, is not affected by the closure and can continue its regular activity.
The measure was triggered by two separate inspections carried out by the Rimini Police Headquarters and local police over the course of the summer.
The first episode dates back to June 6. During the check, police officers found around 200 people dancing on the beach. According to the municipality, the area had been set up with platforms, carpeting and colored lights. A DJ booth had been placed on a stage facing the sea, and staff overseeing security were also present.
Even larger numbers were recorded during the second inspection, carried out by local police from Riccione, Misano Adriatico and Coriano during the “White Party”.
That evening officers counted between 800 and 1,000 people dancing within an area enclosed by barriers and chairs. Once again, the setup included a DJ console, a high-power sound system and strobe lights.
The inspections also revealed another element: attending the July 25 party cost 20 euros per person.
According to what local police verified, entry was controlled through checkpoints staffed by security personnel. Along with the ticket, attendees were also given a voucher redeemable for one drink.
The event had not gone unnoticed online either: the “White Party” had been promoted on social media and on websites dedicated to event listings.
According to the municipal administration, these elements amounted to a genuine public entertainment event. The problem, based on the findings, is that both the public safety license and the required safety inspections meant to protect the wellbeing of those attending were missing.
The decision was also influenced by the repeated nature of the violations, with two separate episodes recorded within just a few weeks of each other.
Hence the measure: seven days of closure right in the middle of the Ferragosto holiday week. Mojito Beach will therefore have to remain closed to the public until 8pm on August 15, while activity linked to the beach establishment itself will be allowed to continue.
