Vybz Kartel, Gaza Kim - File

Sources close to the Portmore Empire claim that head of the organisation, Vybz Kartel, sanctioned the recent beating of singer Gaza Kim. The deejay, however, strongly denies this claim

Gaza Kim, real name Kim Hamilton, was reportedly assaulted on the weekend in the community known as 'Big Yard', off Mannings Hill Road.

According to a source close to the 'Gaza' crew, the singer was at Big Yard when she and a group of men got into a verbal altercation. The STAR source claimed that Vybz Kartel arrived on the scene and the men were instructed to beat her.

A statement from Kartel yesterday denied his involvement in the incident.

"I do not condone violence, especially attacks against females and children," The deejay said. "Gaza Kim is a young, talented singer who I hope will reach far in her musical endeavours. My deepest sentiments go out to her."

traumatised

The release also raised speculations as to whether Gaza Kim is still a member of the Portmore Empire. When asked about this, Kartel did not respond. It was later confirmed by a source close to the Empire that the singer is no longer a member of the popular crew.

Gaza Kim, in a release as well, had earlier confirmed being assaulted and sought the attention of a doctor. In the release, she claimed to be "traumatised" but is recuperating from the ordeal.

She was quoted as saying, "I've taken the necessary actions to correct the wrong that was done against me and legal advice is been sought. I ask my fans, family and friends to not only sympathise but empathise with me in my time of need."

report

When contacted by The STAR yesterday, the Constant Spring Police Station confirmed that she had visited the station to make a report. Efforts to reach Gaza Kim went unanswered.

The singer was added to the Portmore Empire last year at 17 years old and hails from Christian Pen in Portmore. The singer rose to popularity with the release of her first song last July, Teenage Pregnancy, with Vybz Kartel. Since then, the singer has had other popular songs including, Twice My Age with Kartel, Bills on the Gogo Club rhythm with Lisa Hyper and Faithful with Sheba.