Diplo, one of the most innovative DJs in the global electronic music scene, is currently under investigation for organizing an illegal Ibiza party. On Monday, June 24, the American artist found himself at the center of controversy after hosting a surprise event in a protected environmental area on the island.
The location in question is the viewpoint of Cala d’Hort beach in the village of Sant Josep de sa Talaia, a natural reserve frequented by tourists and safeguarded by the European Environment Agency (Natura 2000).
According to social media posts, Diplo used Instagram to invite fans on the same day, drawing hundreds of people to the illegal Ibiza party, which also featured the African artist AMEMÉ.
The event’s large turnout quickly caught the attention of local authorities, prompting an investigation by the police and the Municipal Council of Sant Josep. In an official statement, the Sant Josep town hall expressed concerns: “A vulnerable area where this type of illegal activity poses risks of fires, noise problems, waste issues, and, of course, endangers the safety of participants.”
Local laws strictly prohibit events in environmental preservation areas, with potential fines reaching up to €450,000 for organizers. Spanish news outlet IB3 reports that Diplo may face a €300,000 fine for the illegal Ibiza party.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents, nightlife associations, and environmental groups in Ibiza, who have voiced their disapproval on Diplo’s social media platforms.
In recent years, Ibiza has implemented various measures to combat the negative impacts of excessive tourism, including nighttime alcohol bans on streets and fines for visitors without proof of accommodation.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the DJ and producer will face legal consequences for the incident.
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