Buju Banton Facing Drug Charges

Reggae Singer Buju Banton has been arrested on drug charges.

The Jamaican artist, whose real name is Marc Anthony Myrie, is currently being held in a federal prison in Miami. His arrest stemmed from an incident in Tampa and the charges involve conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilos of cocaine, reports the Miami Herald.

Banton has been in custody since Thursday and will soon be moved to Tampa for the proceedings.

This is not the first time that Banton has seen controversy. “Boom Bye Bye,” his 1990’s hit, inspired protest from many gay rights organizations because the lyrics promote shooting gays in the head and setting them on fire.

On the other hand, many of his fans come to his defense. They say that he offers representation for Jamaica’s poor masses.

Banton’s latest album “Rasta Got Soul” has been nominated for a Grammy, but the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation is working hard to get that nominated rescinded. The group has started an online petition, citing Banton’s anti-gay attitude and songs as the reason.