As Halloween is just two (2) days away, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis police Force is warning the public that wearing disguises or masks in public is not a joke – it is against the law.

The warning comes after a recent incident involving an individual dressed in a “Ghost Nun” Costume who was seen walking through neighborhoods and even entering a primary school in St. Kitts.

Police say while the act may have been intended as a pre-Halloween prank, it caused unnecessary alarm and violates the Small Charges Act.

Under Part 3, Section 8, Subsections 5 and 7 of the Act, it is an offence to wear or possess a mask in a public place without a lawful excuse – except during Carnival or Culturama.

Offenders can face fines of up to $5,000.00 or imprisonment for up to one year. The police is urging the public to act responsibly and avoid behaviours that may cause fear or distress. A “lawful excuse,” the Force explained, includes written permission granted by the Commissioner of Police.

Halloween is a celebration observed in many countries annually on October 31st, the eve of the Western Christian feast of All Hallows’ Day. It is at the beginning of the observance of All-Hallowtide, the time in the Christian liturgical year dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints or hallows, martyrs, and all the faithfully departed. In popular culture, Halloween has become a celebration of horror and is associated with the supernatural.