Organisers of the recently concluded Onyx concert in St Lucia have sought to clarify concerns about an unidentified man who had a firearm in his waistband on stage during Skillibeng’s performance on October 15.

In an official statement sent to the Jamaica Observer, the organisers noted that the man was part of a hired security team and his firearm was licensed.

“…We have, however, become aware of concerns raised about a potential safety risk to fans and patrons due to a decision by a member of our contracted security guards to have an open-carry weapon on stage. We take all public concerns seriously and wish to highlight that all safety precautions to protect performers and patrons were in full effect. All our security personnel were members of the Royal St Lucia Police Force. Their officers are licensed and authorised to provide armed services,” the statement read in part.

They further sought to explain that the moment caught on camera displayed poor judgement.

“Despite that, we do recognise that the on-stage optics may have given the wider public a false impression of the event and what we stand for. As such, we wish to apologise for causing any offence to the public. This was by no means intentional. We also take the opportunity to assure our patrons and the wider society that moving forward; closer attention will be paid to this sensitive logistic element to avoid any discomfort,” it continued.

According to Caribbean National Weekly, the Government of St Lucia was conducting a probe into the incident.

Born in St Thomas, Skillibeng’s given name is Emwah Warmington. He attended Morant Bay High School and did one year of sixth form at Seaforth High School, both located in that parish.

Though he started his journey in 2016, he rose to prominence in 2020 with songs like Mr Universe, 50 Bag, Badman, Hot Life Ah Life, and Crocodile Teeth which was remixed by Nicki Minaj.