A popular rapper in France known as MHD has been given a 12-year jail term for the murder of a young man in Paris in 2018.
The 29-year-old, whose real name is Mohamed Sylla, was found guilty of involvement in the gang-related murder of Loic K, 23, by a court in the capital.
The victim was knocked down by MHD’s Mercedes, then beaten and stabbed to death by a group of roughly 12 people in 2019, leading to the rapper’s voluntary manslaughter allegation.
On January 15, 2019, MHD was taken into custody. Two days later, she was indicted and accused of second-degree murder.
The rapper maintained his innocence all the way up until and including the day of his sentencing, reported the AFP news agency.
“From the beginning, I have maintained my innocence in this case and I will continue to maintain my innocence,” he reportedly said.
He was tried alongside eight co-defendants, out of which three were acquitted, while five others received sentences ranging from 10 to 18 years, according to The Guardian.
MHD said he was never at the scene of the murder, arguing that the case against him was based on rumours.
However, a video shot by a local resident showed a car during the incident which was later identified as belonging to MHD.
Other witnesses identified him by his haircut and a jumper.
