Palestinian DJ Sama' Abdulhadi released after eight-day detention in Jericho jail
Palestinian electronic musician and DJ Sama’ Abdulhadi has been released on bail by Palestinian Authorities following eight days in a Jericho jail.
The 30-year-old was arrested on the 28th of December after playing a private Beatport event near a West Bank mosque, for a pre-recorded performance series named The Residency.
After being released on bail, Abdulhadi is not allowed to travel outside of Palestine and is subject to further investigation on the charges of desecrating a holy site and religious symbols as well as violating Covid-19 emergency measures. If indicted, she could face up to two years’ imprisonment.
The location of Maqam Nabi Musa in the West Bank is still partly used as a place of worship but was declared an attraction for tourists by the Ministry in 2019 and is often used for music events.
Her detention led to a wave of international support from the electronic community of artists and DJs as well as Brian Eno and Roger Waters. A Change.org petition was created asking for her release and received over 100,000 signatures before being closed.
Abdulhadi says: “I am safe and well and would like to thank everybody who has spoken out in support of my situation and called for my immediate release. I am overwhelmed by the support from my fellow musicians, artists, activists and the entire music community. I want to thank anybody and everybody who has made me feel so supported. At this moment, I just want to spend time with my family.”
