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December 10, 2007
Curfew Police Searches Stop More Concerts
By: Jaide Bridge
Photography By: Milton Raynor
Stage show business appears to be getting a blow this holiday season. What has been described as a possibly 'sticky' forecast - with Jamaica's law enforcement agents leaving no stone unturned in their quest to squash gun play and violence; could threaten the major traditional end of year concerts.
Reggae lovers attending Reggae Fever at Catherines Hall, Mo Bay on Saturday night, who happened to have been present when Movado's Earth Day was raided recently; went into instant deja vue mode. At around 4:00AM, police officers from mobile reserves and regular officers came to the venue and turned the sound system off – declaring the show over with a curfew in place.
Before the curfew, patrons were going crazy over the energetic singers like: King Yellowman – who thrilled the crowd, Dez I Boyd – who had the women screaming, rocking and singing his "Shake up yu natty...wine pon a catty" hit and other stellar hit-makers - Bryahan Art, Lutan Fyah, John Holt and Jimmy Riley.
Unique Promotions suffered a similar fate last year, when Reggae Fever was turned off because of the "Noise Abatement Act." This year there was an added touch; the temporary confinement of all in attendance, as well as their being subjected to and intense search of their person and vehicles.
Stuck at the venue until 8:00AM, the crowd - that was not as huge as anticipated to begin with, was quite annoyed, but many welcomed the serious stance being taken by authorities to overpower violence in Jamaica.
While the search lights bobbed and weaved, something spectacular was happening under the dim backstage lights. An impromptu 'concert' sprung up when a small audience cheered on Beenie Man, Barbee and Queen Ifrica – some of the artists denied a chance to perform due to the early show closure – who were singing, dancing and really getting down for their backstage fans.
Due to recent outbursts of violence, the law has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance for concealed weapons and violent acts. The violent climate was also blamed for the crowd being smaller than originally anticipated by promoters.
Another concert close by in Sav La Mar, was also pounced upon by surprise at around 4:00AM that same Saturday morning. Patrons were searched and contraband seized by police officers. This one – called, 'Riding West,' was held in Llandilo. The only difference there was all the artistes had finished performing, with the raid taking place right after Jah Cure, who was the final performer.
Police seized many dangerous items and held 2 truck loads of people, who were processed with some being detained.
Many party people are now airing their concerns about what will take place for the remainder of this festive season. Some could be heard saying, "What on earth will happen for Camp Fire, Ram Jam and Sting?"
