The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) wishes to address public concern regarding the revocation of permissions previously granted in connection with the funeral procession of the late Jermaine Clarke, scheduled for today, May 20, 2026.
The RSCNPF acknowledges the profound loss felt by Mr. Clarke’s family, friends, and the wider community. We recognise the significant cultural role he played and do not take lightly any decision that affects the manner in which the public mourns.
Permission was granted to members of Kollision Band to perform music during the funeral procession from the church to the cemetery. That permission was granted within defined parameters, specifically the performance of music at a level appropriate to a funeral procession moving through public streets.
Following the granting of that permission, public announcements were made characterising the procession as a “jam session,” a description that materially altered the nature and scope of what was approved. This distinction is not merely an administrative formality. A funeral procession and a public jam session carry fundamentally different implications for crowd size, traffic management, public order, and the safe passage of the ceremonial procession itself.
The RSCNPF has a duty to facilitate the safe movement of all persons through public spaces, including those attending to pay their respects. When the conditions under which permission was granted are no longer those that will exist on the ground, that permission cannot responsibly remain in effect.
Our decision is not intended to interfere with the funeral or to disregard the community’s grief. It is a public safety decision based on the difference between the permission that was granted and the public event that was subsequently announced.
The Force extends its sincere condolences to the Clarke family and asks for the public’s understanding and cooperation. Members of the public are urged to follow all lawful instructions and allow the funeral and burial proceedings to take place peacefully and respectfully.
We remain guided by our duty to protect life, preserve public order, and support the safe conduct of national and community events.
Should Kollision Band or the Clarke family wish to organise a separate public jam session to celebrate Mr. Clarke’s life and legacy, the RSCNPF encourages them to submit a formal application. Such a request will be received and considered in good faith, with the goal of facilitating a fitting tribute in a manner that is safe and properly coordinated for all involved.