AMMAN — The Ministry of Interior announced on Sunday that an “illegal” activity was held in Aqaba by the banned Muslim Brotherhood group, after which participants were detained.

 

In a statement cited by Al Mamlaka, the ministry said that the activity was in form of “unauthorised gathering organised at the direction of individuals who previously held senior positions” within the outlawed group, adding that work was underway to track down organisers and take legal action against them.

 

The ministry reiterated that the Muslim Brotherhood is a banned organisation and that no activities or events may be conducted under its banner under any circumstances.

 

It warned that anyone found to be in violation of the law would face prosecution.

 

The ministry also emphasised that political activity in Jordan is permitted only through legally registered and licensed parties, stressing that no leniency will be shown towards any actions aimed at breaking or bypassing the law.

 

Aqaba Governor Ayman Awaisheh told public service broadcaster Al Mamlaka that six individuals who took part in the meeting had been arrested and referred to the judiciary for legal proceedings.

 

The government banned the Muslim Brotherhood in April last year, after members of the Islamist group had been arrested on suspicion of planning rocket and drone attacks.

 

Interior Minister Mazen Faraya said at the time that all of the Brotherhood's offices would be closed and its assets confiscated, and that any activities would be considered illegal.

 

On April 15, the General Intelligence Department announced that 16 men, including some who were members of the Muslim Brotherhood, allegedly planned to cause chaos and sabotage acts in Jordan.

 

The group was charged with terrorism and manufacturing explosive substances against the suspects involved in alleged plots targeting Jordan’s national security.