Authorities in Qatar apologize for intimidating a Danish film crew during the World Cup.
A Danish film team was intimidated by security personnel live on air while they aired in the capital Doha ahead of the World Cup, according to a statement from Qatar’s Supreme Committee.
While participating in a live broadcast, TV2 reporter Rasmus Tantholdt was contacted by security personnel who had pulled up in a golf cart adjacent to the recently opened Chedi Hotel in Katara Cultural Village.
Tantholdt is seen arguing with the security guards in the video, flashing his credentials before accusing them of saying they want to destroy the camera equipment. The video quickly became popular on social media.
The Supreme Committee said in a statement that the Danish broadcast team had been “mistakenly interrupted” while doing a live broadcast.
“On-site security apologized to the broadcaster after verifying the crew’s legitimate tournament accreditation and filming authorization. The crew then went back to work.
After speaking with the journalist, the event’s organizers “issued a warning to all organizations to respect the filming permissions in place for the tournament.”
Additionally, Tantholdt was seen on tape enquiring, “You invited the entire world here.
How come we can’t film?
Since it was initially announced 12 years ago, the choice to grant Qatar hosting rights for the 2022 World Cup has been dogged by controversy, including claims of corruption and human rights abuses. The host nation’s treatment of tourists is under close scrutiny.
The Qatari government established the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy to organize and prepare for the World Cup.
On Sunday, Qatar and Ecuador square off in the tournament’s first match.
