British-Ghanaian drill rapper Daniel Boakye, known professionally as DSAVV, has been recaptured by the Metropolitan Police following a series of custody escapes that sparked widespread public attention.
Police confirmed that Boakye was arrested at an address in south-east London after briefly evading authorities for the second time within a week. His arrest effectively ended a high-profile manhunt that had drawn significant online engagement.
Two Hospital Escapes Within Days
Boakye, 21, had reportedly been awaiting deportation from the United Kingdom to Ghana when he first fled custody on February 10, 2026, while receiving medical treatment at West Middlesex University Hospital.
DSAVV was arrested the following day in Thamesmead.
However, on February 15 at approximately 3:05 p.m., he escaped again while under police guard at University Hospital Lewisham. Officers reportedly pursued him through the hospital but were unable to prevent him from leaving the premises.
Social Media Videos During Manhunt
During the period he remained at large, Boakye posted videos on social media referencing his escape.
In one clip, he performed lyrics that alluded to evading custody and referenced a character from the television drama Top Boy. The videos quickly circulated online and generated widespread discussion.
Authorities have not commented on the content of the videos beyond confirming that investigations into the escape incidents are ongoing.
DSAVV’s Previous Conviction and Deportation Proceedings
Boakye was sentenced in July 2023 to six years and five months in prison for his role in a robbery gang operating across London between 2021 and 2022.
According to court proceedings, the group targeted victims, stole mobile phones, and accessed financial information, resulting in significant monetary losses. Investigators later identified members of the group after stolen bank details were traced to food deliveries made to their residential addresses.
At the time of his escape, DSAVV was reportedly subject to deportation proceedings. A spokesperson for the Home Office reiterated that foreign national offenders sentenced to imprisonment in the UK are considered for removal at the earliest opportunity.
Internal Review Launched
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that its Directorate of Professional Standards is reviewing the circumstances surrounding both hospital escapes.
Four individuals were previously arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in connection with the first escape. They were later released on bail pending further inquiries.
With Boakye now back in custody, deportation procedures are expected to resume in accordance with UK immigration regulations.
