Can Fugitive Drill Rapper Dsavv Outsmart Police with His New ‘Catch Me If You Can’ Rap?

In a brazen display of defiance, drill rapper Daniel Boakye, known as DSAVV, has released a new rap video taunting police after escaping custody for the second time. The 21-year-old's antics have drawn both ire and amusement from the public, highlighting ongoing issues surrounding gang culture and crime in the UK.

Last updated: 22 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Daniel Boakye's recent escape from police custody has raised significant concerns about law enforcement's ability to manage individuals with a history of violent crime. After his latest escape from University Hospital Lewisham on 15 October 2023, Boakye has released a video flaunting his freedom, further complicating police efforts to recapture him. His lyrics suggest a reckless attitude towards his actions, with lines that reference firearms and mock the police. This situation highlights the challenges faced by authorities in dealing with offenders who use social media to incite fear and showcase their criminal lifestyle.

Key takeaways

Daniel Boakye, a drill rapper, has escaped police custody twice.
He is linked to the gang OFB, involved in serious crimes including armed robbery.
His recent rap video mocks police efforts to recapture him.

Timeline: how we got here

Since his initial arrest in early 2022, Daniel Boakye's criminal activities have escalated, culminating in his recent escape. Here’s a brief timeline of key events:

June 2021 - January 2022: Boakye participates in a series of armed robberies across London, stealing over £115,000.
October 2022: He is arrested and sentenced for his crimes.
15 October 2023: Boakye escapes from University Hospital Lewisham while in police custody.
22 October 2023: He releases a rap video boasting about his escape.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest video released by Boakye showcases his apparent disregard for the law and taunts the police, prompting widespread discussions on social media regarding gang culture and crime in the UK. His lyrics suggest he feels untouchable, which could potentially inspire copycat behaviour among young individuals in similar situations.

What was already established

Prior to his escape, Boakye's criminal history had already marked him as a significant figure within the UK drill rap scene, known for his lyrics that often glorify violence and criminal activity. His previous arrest and the nature of his crimes have raised alarms about the influence of such music on youth culture and crime rates in urban areas.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Boakye's actions and the ensuing police chase could instil fear in local communities, especially in areas affected by gang violence. The glorification of crime in drill music raises concerns about its influence on young people, potentially normalising anti-social behaviour.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses, particularly those in the entertainment and music sectors, the situation presents both challenges and opportunities. While the notoriety surrounding Boakye may attract attention, it also draws scrutiny to the messages promoted within drill music and their social implications.

Policy and regulation

The UK government and law enforcement agencies may need to reassess their strategies for handling individuals with violent backgrounds, particularly those who use social media platforms to mock authority. This could lead to discussions on reforming policies surrounding gang-related activities and music censorship.

Numbers that matter

£115,000 - Total amount stolen during Boakye's robbery spree.
2 - Number of times Boakye has escaped police custody.
21 - Age of Daniel Boakye, highlighting the youth involved in such serious crimes.

Definitions and jargon buster

Drill rap: A subgenre of hip-hop music that originated in Chicago, known for its dark beats and violent lyrics.
OFB: Original Farm Boys, a London-based gang associated with drill music and serious criminal activities.
Hot wallets: Cryptocurrency wallets connected to the internet, often used for quick transactions but less secure than cold wallets.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Law enforcement will likely intensify their search for Boakye. Communities may see increased police presence as authorities work to reassure the public and prevent further disturbances linked to his actions.

Medium term (1–6 months)

There may be broader discussions on how to address the social issues surrounding drill music and gang violence, leading to potential policy changes or community programmes aimed at steering youth away from crime.

Signals to watch

Updates from the Metropolitan Police regarding Boakye’s apprehension.
Public responses to the influence of drill music on youth crime rates.
Policy announcements concerning gang-related activities and music censorship.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about local crime reports and police updates.
Engage in community discussions regarding youth culture and crime prevention.
Support initiatives aimed at providing positive alternatives for at-risk youth.

Don’t

Glorify or trivialise the consequences of gang violence and crime.
Ignore the influence of music and media on young people's behaviour.
Assume that all drill music promotes violence without understanding the broader context.

Checklist

Stay updated on police announcements regarding Boakye’s status.
Consider attending local community meetings focused on crime prevention.
Discuss the implications of drill music on youth with peers and family.
Explore ways to support local organisations working with at-risk youth.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

With Boakye's continued evasion of law enforcement, there are concerns that his actions may inspire others. The portrayal of violence in drill music is contentious and often debated, with some arguing it reflects societal issues rather than inciting violence. Future developments will depend on police strategies and community responses to youth culture.

Bottom line

Daniel Boakye's recent escape and subsequent taunts pose serious questions about gang culture and crime in the UK. His actions serve as a stark reminder of the need for proactive community and policing strategies to address the root causes of youth crime and the influence of music on behaviour.

FAQs

What is Daniel Boakye known for?

Daniel Boakye, also known as DSAVV, is a drill rapper involved in serious crimes, including armed robbery and escaping police custody.

How did Daniel Boakye escape custody?

He escaped from police custody while receiving medical treatment at University Hospital Lewisham on 15 October 2023.

What impact does drill music have on youth culture?

Drill music has been scrutinised for its potential to glorify violence and criminal behaviour, influencing some young individuals to engage in similar activities.