Seven members of Kollision Band have been charged after police alleged they performed during the funeral procession of the band’s late lead singer, Jermaine ‘Chubby’ Clarke, without obtaining the required license.
Earlier this week, the police said that Erickson Williams Jr., Jason Kyte, Travis James, Terrance Richards, Jahvian Barrett, Vern Pemberton, and Travis Thompson were arrested and formally charged on warrants on Wednesday.
The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) said the charges relate to an incident on May 20, when the group allegedly played noisy instruments on public roads during Clarke’s funeral procession without the necessary license.
The procession, which attracted significant public attention, featured a live musical tribute by Clarke’s fellow band members as mourners escorted the late entertainer to his final resting place.
In a statement, the police force said while it respects the cultural importance of music and public expressions of remembrance, the public is reminded that events involving amplified music, noisy instruments, public gatherings, and road use must comply with legal requirements.
However, there has been widespread condemnation of the police for seeking to convict the band members for celebrating the life of a former member.
In response, the police said the licensing process is designed to facilitate traffic management, maintain public safety, and minimise disruption, adding that the regulations are intended to support, not suppress, cultural traditions.
The RSCNPF said it remains committed to enforcing the law fairly while balancing public safety with the preservation of lawful cultural practices.
The seven accused are expected to answer the charges before the court in due course.