American Rapper Wiz Khalifa Arrested in Romania for Cannabis Possession After Smoking Onstage During Beach Please! Festival
Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News
5 minutes read. Updated 3:18PM GMT Mon, 15 July, 2024
Renowned American rapper Wiz Khalifa, whose real name is Cameron Thomaz, found himself embroiled in legal trouble over the weekend in Romania. The artist was arrested after allegedly consuming marijuana during his performance at the Beach Please! Festival, a popular music event in the European country.
The Incident
Wiz Khalifa’s much-anticipated performance at the Beach Please! Festival in Costinești, Constanta County, turned controversial when footage shared on social media captured him smoking onstage. The viral videos quickly attracted the attention of local law enforcement, leading to his arrest on charges of illegal drug possession.
Law Enforcement Statement
In a press release, the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) provided details of the arrest. According to the translated statement, “An individual was charged with illegal possession of high-risk drugs after attending a music festival with cannabis. It was noted that he, during a recital held at a music festival taking place in Costinești resort, Constanta County, possessed over 18 grams of cannabis (a high-risk drug) and consumed (onstage) another amounts of cannabis in the form of an artisanal cigarette.”
Wiz Khalifa’s Response
In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Wiz Khalifa addressed the incident, seemingly acknowledging his arrest. “Last night’s show was amazing. I didn’t mean any disrespect to the country of Romania by lighting up onstage,” Khalifa wrote. “They were very respectful and let me go. I’ll be back soon. But without a big (expletive) joint next time.”
International Reactions
The arrest has sparked a significant reaction from fans and the international music community. Many have taken to social media to express their opinions, with some supporting Khalifa’s actions as a form of artistic expression and others criticizing the rapper for his disregard for local laws.
Broader Implications
This incident underscores the varying legal landscapes regarding cannabis use around the world. While marijuana legalization has progressed in many parts of the United States and other countries, Romania maintains strict regulations against its possession and use. The arrest of a high-profile artist like Wiz Khalifa brings these differences into sharp relief and highlights the importance of artists being aware of and respecting local laws while touring internationally.
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