Following a death threat that Sulumani Chimbetu recently received the musician has implored his United Kingdom (UK) promoter to guarantee him maximum security when he tours that country during Easter.
Tour organiser Brian Bako has in turn promised the artist and his band ultimate protection and the best of treatment.
Sulu received a death threat from a fan, apparently based in South Africa, saying he should not visit Johannesburg unless he returns band members he snatched from Alick Macheso.
Bako said he had taken measures to ensure the band will be safe adding that any criminal activity would be punished accordingly.
“The citizens of the UK uphold the rule of law and if any threats are made towards the musician and/or promoters we will report the matter to the police who are dedicated to the cause. On the day of arrival, we shall ensure licensed bouncers will be at the airport to escort Sulu to the hotel and keep a watch throughout the tour,” said Bako.
“The last time Sulu came here he was badly treated, but the people responsible for that bad behaviour are well-known conmen. I do not know how Sulu ended up dealing with those people.”
Bako said music fans that threaten musicians with death just because of a cross-over of band members did not understand the industry at all.
“I took it as a joke. The entertainment industry is not a religion; we celebrate all types of music — reggae, classical and sungura — and the fact that some of the most celebrated artists such as Francis Dhaka deserted Alick Macheso to Sulu says it all. It is a profession like any other and employees change companies as and when it is appropriate.
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“Threatening someone with violence is a criminal offence and can be punished with a prison term, and in the case of UK, culprits face deportation after serving the sentence.”
Bako confirmed work permits for the band had been issued and were being sent to Sulu’s lawyers for the processing of visas.
Chimbetu is scheduled to perform in East London at the Oasis on April 6, the West Indian Centre Chapel situated at Aston Villa football grounds on April 7 and Ruskin Hall in Birmingham on April 8.
