Italy to criminalise raves, with jail sentences for party organisers

Italy is to criminalise raves, with strict new laws that could see organisers of the illegal parties jailed for up to six years.

Italian Home Affairs Minister Matteo Piantedosi announced the plans this week, shortly after police were called to stop a large rave taking place inside an abandoned warehouse in Modena.

More than 1,000 revellers were kicked out of the event after residents nearby complained about non-stop techno music for 48 hours. The BBC said partygoers left without trouble and tidied up behind themselves.

The new laws would make it a crime to stage a gathering of 50 or more people deemed “dangerous” to public order. Apart from up to six years in prison, organisers would also face fines ranging from €1,000 to €10,000.

Controversially, the government also wants to empower police to wiretap organisers and intercept online communications about events. Raves are often advertised through social media messaging apps like WhatsApp.

Piantedosi’s plan drew criticism within Italy, however, after opposition politicians noted that the government had not stopped a weekend march of 2,000 supporters of fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.

The minister argued that the two events were...