Shooting at ABLP Rally in St. John's During Masicka Concert, PM Browne Condemns Violence

A shooting disrupted an Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party rally in St. John's where Masicka was performing. PM Browne called it criminal violence, unlinked to politics.

Gunfire Breaks Out Near ABLP Rally in St. John's as Masicka Performs

A shooting incident disrupted a large Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) political rally in St. John's on Saturday night, where Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka was performing, caribbeannationalweekly.com reports. Prime Minister Gaston Browne issued an official statement hours after the incident, strongly condemning the violence and stating it was criminal in nature rather than politically motivated.

"I have been deeply concerned by the shooting incident that occurred in the early hours of this morning in the vicinity of a public concert organised by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party," Browne stated.

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda confirmed the incident was not politically linked and bore no connection to the ABLP event itself. Browne urged the public to take careful note of that clarification. Videos circulating on social media showed patrons fleeing in panic as sounds believed to be gunfire rang out at the venue. Fellow Jamaican artist Sizzla had performed earlier in the evening.

Browne characterised the shooting as "an act of criminal violence, rooted in illegal guns and ongoing disputes, which intruded upon a public gathering," adding that such conduct had no place in Antiguan society.

"I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the use of illegal firearms, gang activity, and any form of violence that endangers innocent lives and undermines the peace and stability of our nation. Those responsible must be identified, apprehended, and brought before the courts," the Prime Minister said.

Browne pointed to steps already taken by his administration to counter gun violence, including tougher legislation, higher penalties for illegal firearm possession and use, and intensified efforts to disrupt the importation and circulation of illegal weapons.

"There can be no excuse for criminal violence. The use of illegal guns, the pursuit of gang conflict, and the willingness to endanger innocent lives are choices. They will be met with firm and decisive consequences," he said.

The Prime Minister also referenced the ABLP's 2026 manifesto, The Renaissance: A New Era for Antigua and Barbuda, citing pages 74 and 75 as containing an explicit pledge of zero tolerance for murder, gang violence, and the spread of illegal firearms.

"The safety of the people of Antigua and Barbuda is paramount. My Government will intensify its efforts, in full cooperation with law enforcement and the community, to stamp out this menace and to ensure that our country remains safe and secure for all," Browne added.

Authorities confirmed no injuries as of the time of reporting, and investigations into the incident are continuing.

Source: Google News AG — Crime