‘Police to patrol Jabal Luweibdeh after complaints about rowdy youths’

AMMAN — After receiving complaints from Jabal Luweibdeh residents, Amman Police Department on Sunday said officers would intensify security measures in the area to ensure the safety of locals and tourists. 

Shireen Hammad, who lives in the old neighbourhood, said crowds of teenagers and young men frequently gather in the suburb during weekends, and that they disturb local residents. 

“There are old people living among us who cannot spend time on their balconies or inside their houses because of the noise in Jabal Luweibdeh’s streets,” she told The Jordan Times.

Another resident, Naeem Salameh, who has lived in the area for more than 15 years, said Jabal Luweibdeh has become the new hot spot for teenagers to spend time and to perform car and motorcycle rallies.

“It is now the liveliest area in Amman, but many residents moved because of the noise and the reckless driving on weekends that endangers people’s lives,” he said, adding that “stricter security measures should be taken against those young men”. 

From the capital’s police department, Lt. Col. Mohammad Faouri said Jabal Luweibdeh residents have complained about the crowds gathering in several spots in the area, particularly in Paris Circle.

“Young people from areas [outside west Amman] meet at the circle during weekdays and weekends. This is a problem for the residents since the youngsters, sometimes, drink alcohol, which might lead to dangerous consequences,” Faouri told The Jordan Times.

“The phenomenon is annoying the long-time residents of the area. Sometimes, they get into gunfights with each other,” the official continued.

Security campaigns will be launched this month to guarantee the well-being and safety of Jabal Luweibdeh residents, he added. 

“There is also a good number of foreigners and diplomats living in the area. We do not want it to turn into a centre for theft, harassment and other acts. Our campaigns are a reaction to the complaints we have been receiving from residents,” Faouri said.

Citizens found in crowds in Jabal Luweibdeh will be asked to show an identification card, and may be referred to the station if they have a criminal record, according to the police department. 

“Placing police patrols on several streets and areas conveys the message clearly,” Faouri added.