British rapper and actor Ghetts has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving following a fatal hit-and-run in east London.
The musician, whose real name is Justin Clarke-Samuel, allegedly failed to stop after hitting 20-year-old Yubin Tamang on Redbridge Lane East, East London, on October 18. Tamang, a University of Roehampton student, succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Appearing before Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on Monday, Ghetts, 41, wore a grey prison-issue tracksuit and spoke only to confirm his personal details.
He was initially charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving, but the indictment was upgraded after Tamang’s death. He remains in custody and is set to appear at the Old Bailey on November 24.
Police said Tamang, a Nepalese-born student and keen musician, was struck while walking home. His family has since paid tribute online, describing him as a “good student” and a “very good person.”
His sister, Manita Rai, posted an emotional TikTok plea demanding justice for her brother, while his father shared childhood photos of Yubin, writing: “My little world, all I have left is tears in my hands.”
The Metropolitan Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward as investigations continue.
Ghetts, a prominent figure in British grime, has collaborated with stars including Skepta, Stormzy and Ed Sheeran. He rose to fame as part of the Nasty Crew collective and later won Best Male Act at the 2021 Mobo Awards. In 2024, he received the Mobo Pioneer Award for his contribution to Black British culture.
Most recently, he starred as Krazy in Netflix’s superhero drama Supacell, which follows a group of south Londoners who gain extraordinary powers. The rapper has yet to comment publicly on the charges.
