Taj Weekes, the renowned Saint Lucian reggae icon and UNICEF recognized humanitarian, is recovering from a distressing and unprovoked incident when four masked intruders unlawfully entered his property last weekend.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Taj recounted the harrowing encounter he experienced as he tried to de-escalate the situation and understand the intruders’ motives for trespassing.
Describing it as a “surreal experience,” Taj revealed that the armed men invaded his countryside residence on Sunday night around 10:30 p.m. He recalled being at home, enjoying the peace and serenity of his remote living environment when he noticed lights coming from the driveway, initially mistaking it for an approaching vehicle.
Caught in a conversation with his wife on the phone, Taj didn’t initially react, but the incessant barking of his dogs alerted him to the urgency of the situation. Tragically, the intruders even kicked his dogs, leaving one of them requiring veterinary treatment.
“When I got closer, I realized it was four men approaching in a ‘military style,’ with two holding lights up and two pointing them downwards,” he explained.
“I asked them what they wanted, but they just continued to stare at me. Then one of them turned off the light pointing at me and brandished a gun.”
In a moment of defiance, Taj stated, “I told them I wasn’t afraid and that they should do what they had to do.”
However, the intruders remained silent, later walking down the back road, during which he heard what he believed to be a gunshot.
Following the incident, Taj’s wife called him to check on the situation, prompting him to reach out to the Micoud Police for assistance.
He praised their prompt response, saying, “They responded swiftly. While on the property, they searched for the intruders.”
Taj expressed gratitude for the quick action of the Micoud police, especially given the remote nature of his home, located about a mile and a half from the main road.
In light of this incident and the broader crime issues affecting the country, Taj shared his bewilderment over the motivations behind such a reckless act.
“We have not harmed anyone, and it’s disheartening to realize that no matter who you are, crime and violence can touch your life,” he said.
As a passionate advocate for social justice and community development, Taj emphasized the importance of unity in addressing these issues. “This situation shows that, whether you’re well-known or live in a remote area, crime can reach you,” he remarked.
Reflecting on the emotional toll of the incident, Taj added, “It’s truly sad for me. I have lived in several places, and I chose to come home for peace, only to face this. It’s the saddest reality.”
Taj Weekes continues to stand as a voice for change and resilience, urging the community to come together to confront the challenges of crime and violence. – R.A.