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Iran Arrests 230 Young Partygoers for Drinking, Dancing

by VOA News

   Officials in Iran have arrested 230 young men and women at two parties
   in the capital Tehran where alcohol was being served, according to
   Iran's semi-official ISNA news agency.

   ISNA reported Friday that the young partygoers were arrested on charges
   of drinking alcoholic drinks and dancing in mixed parties.

   Drinking alcohol and attending parties of unrelated men and women is
   illegal in Iran.

   The report said two singers who were performing at the parties in
   northern Tehran were also arrested and some alcoholic drinks and drugs
   were confiscated.

   It said police learned of the parties, which were in celebration of the
   winter solstice, from invitations posted on Instagram.

   The shortest of the day of the year, or the winter solstice, is a
   traditional day of celebration in Iran, known as Yalda.