Vieux Fort Carnival 2018 Was All ‘Peace And Love’, Thanks To The Police!

By Kingsley Emmanuel

REVELERS who took part in this year’s carnival celebrations in Vieux Fort had a rollicking time. Skimpy-attired revellers gyrating without moderation throughout the two- day event, which commenced on Sunday, July 8, was truly a sight to behold for many, even though not all…

All in all, Vieux Fort enjoyed a peaceful carnival, thanks in most part to the police.

However, the crowd participation was not as impressive as in previous years.

Five bands, displaying various themes, took part in the Parade of the Bands this year.

What was also striking, this year, was the heavy presence of armed police officers, who combed the various troubled areas in Vieux Fort town, searching a number of persons.

Their presence was well-appreciated by both revellers and spectators.

Some individuals in the troubled areas complained that they were searched several times by the police in one day.

One man who was seen by police recording the operation with his cell phone said he was ordered to delete it.

Prior to the event, a number of persons in Vieux Fort had expressed concern for their safety during the celebrations because of the chilling crime spree in the community.

However, there was no reported incident of violence during the two day event.

Over the years, carnival celebrations in Vieux Fort have always been marred with gang violence.

Organizers of the event have expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the activities this year.

“I am satisfied with the outcome of the event despite the many challenges we faced,” Andre Jn. Baptiste, vice chairman of the Vieux Fort Carnival Committee told this reporter.

Jn. Baptiste, who is also the leader of the band Two Dayz of Peace, said the police played a big role in ensuring the safety of revelers and spectators.

“The police did a good job. Hats off to them,” he said.