Trinidadian authorities launch probe into Kartel’s US$950,000 payment

Media in Trinidad are reporting that an investigation has been launched into how the promoters of the One Caribbean Music Festival secured US dollars to pay Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel and other artistes.

The Trinidad Guardian says Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin confirmed on Tuesday that the Financial Investigations Branch (FIB) is probing the source, method, and timing of the US$950,000 payment to Kartel.

Benjamin reportedly said while the police have not received any formal report on the matter, they are proceeding with their own investigation.

While he did not state what the investigation would focus on, senior officers reportedly told the Trinidad Express Tuesday night that it would examine legal issues related to the transaction and if it was conducted under all necessary laws, foreign exchange controls, and financial transparency regulations.

The investigation could reportedly take up to 30 days, with provision for a further 30-day extension.

Following the disclosure that US$950,000 had been paid to Palmer to appear as the main act in the May 31 reggae concert at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo said he was “intrigued” by the amount of foreign exchange that had reportedly changed hands.

Palmer was supposed to have been paid a total of US$1.35 million to perform in the show, which also featured other foreign acts including Malie Donn, Rvssian, Sizzla Kalonji, and Moliy, along with local artistes Lady Lava and Ravi B.

Kartel pulled out of his scheduled concert appearance, citing what he said was the promoter’s failure to fulfil contractual obligations as the reason for his no-show.

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