Los Angeles police were called to the Los Angeles Convention Center early Friday morning following an unofficial late-night gathering of cosplayers. The incident occurred after the first day of the four-day Anime Expo, an event celebrating Japanese pop culture that draws thousands of fans.
Attendees had congregated outside the convention center for an impromptu game of riichi mahjong, a Japanese tile game popularized in anime. The growing crowd prompted a significant response from the Los Angeles Police Department, with a police van observed near the scene as officers moved in.
The LAPD stated that officers were following standard protocol due to the large crowds. However, attendees expressed surprise at the police presence, with one social media user noting, "Never mind they observed, reported and left. THEY BROUGHT A PADDY WAGON. THEY WERE READY TO LOAD US UP."
Riichi mahjong, sometimes referred to as "Midnight Mahjong," is an activity that fans have engaged in nightly during the initial days of the convention in previous years. Reports from past events indicate similar informal mahjong gatherings occurred outside the venue.
Anime Expo is known for its cosplay gatherings, where attendees showcase detailed costumes of popular anime characters from shows such as “Jujutsu Kaisen” and “Demon Slayer.” The event also allows attendees to host their own themed cosplay meetups. Ticket prices for Saturday single-day adult admissions were $109.75, with children's admissions priced at $42.75.