In a stunning turn of events, renowned Jamaican dancehall artist Adidja Palmer, better known as Vybz Kartel, has been granted his freedom following a landmark court decision on Wednesday July 31, 2024.

The 48-year-old singer, who has long been a controversial figure in the music industry, was acquitted along with his co-defendants, marking a significant moment in his ongoing legal saga.

The Jamaica Court of Appeal ruled that Kartel and his associates should not face retrial, citing issues such as jury misconduct and concerns over the artist’s deteriorating health.

This ruling comes after years of legal battles that have captivated fans both locally and internationally.

Since his release, Kartel has been utilizing social media to reconnect with fans, sharing a flurry of images and videos capturing moments with friends and family.

In one particularly controversial video, the artist was seen in a car with his girlfriend Sidem Ozturk, toasting to his newfound freedom with a bottle of alcohol while proclaiming,

“I’m out! Me and my wife.”

However, his appearance raised eyebrows, as he appeared to have a swollen face, sparking concerns about his health among viewers.

 

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A post shared by KING OF DANCEHALL (@vybzkartel)

Netizens have had mixed reactions to the video; some fans expressed their joy at Kartel’s release, while others voiced their worries regarding his well-being.

Conversations surrounding his health and his apparent relationship with Ozturk have dominated online discussions, with many eager to see how the artist navigates this new chapter in his life.

Judge Marva McDonald-Bishop, who presided over the case, delivered the unanimous verdict, stating, “Considering all the issues that the court has considered, we conclude that the interests of justice do not require a new trial to be ordered for the appellants.”

He further noted, “Therefore, we issue the following order: judgment and acquittal are entered against the appellants,” sealing a pivotal moment in Kartel’s tumultuous journey.

With his freedom restored, Vybz Kartel is poised to re-enter the music scene and continue his influence in the dancehall genre.

As fans eagerly await his next moves, the artist’s release has undeniably reignited interest in his music and legacy, keeping the world of dancehall on high alert.

Related: Dancehall King Vybz Kartel Confident He’ll Be Out After His Sentence Is Reduced