In a tragic turn of events, Nathan Tokosi, known professionally as rapper DigDat, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in a drive-by shooting that left a fellow musician critically injured. The shooting, which occurred in Notting Hill on 20 November 2023, has raised serious concerns about the escalating violence within the music industry and its impact on communities.
Life Sentence for Attempted Murder
The Old Bailey handed down a life sentence to Tokosi, who must serve a minimum of 24 years after being convicted of attempted murder and various firearms offences. The victim, 27-year-old Daniel Offei-Ntow, known as Lugavelz, was shot six times while sitting in his car, suffering severe injuries to his head and body. Despite the assault, Offei-Ntow managed to return to his home, where he was later found by police in a state of shock, highlighting the harrowing nature of the incident.
Following the shooting, it was reported that Offei-Ntow has since passed away, though authorities have stated that his death is not connected to the shooting incident.
A Troubled Past
Tokosi, who is only 26, has a history of violent behaviour, with previous convictions spanning back to childhood. His criminal record includes multiple violent offences, starting from the age of 11, when he was involved in assaults. A particularly notable case involved a stabbing at 13, for which he received a lengthy youth detention sentence.
In court, defence attorney Shannon Revel described Tokosi as a “laidback” individual who became overwhelmed by the rapid success of his music career. Revel noted that the pressures and lifestyle that came with fame contributed to Tokosi’s downfall, suggesting that he was caught in a chaotic world that provided little room for introspection or growth.
The Court Proceedings
During the trial, the prosecution presented compelling evidence linking Tokosi to the shooting. Witnesses described a stolen Audi pulling up alongside Offei-Ntow’s vehicle, with multiple shots fired from the rear passenger window. The police arrived promptly to find the victim’s car riddled with bullets and blood, evidence of the shocking violence that unfolded.
Detective Inspector Chris Shepherd condemned the premeditated nature of Tokosi’s actions, emphasising the reckless disregard for human life. He praised the investigative efforts that led to Tokosi’s conviction, reaffirming a commitment to combat gang violence in London.
The trial also revealed that Tokosi had borrowed a BMW for two consecutive nights leading up to the shooting, a detail that further underscored his involvement. Despite attempts to distance himself from the crime, investigators were able to uncover DNA evidence linking him to the scene.
Community Impact and Reflection
The sentencing has sparked a broader discussion about the intersection of music, fame, and violence. The rise of drill music in particular has been scrutinised for its portrayal of street life and gang culture, which some argue contributes to real-world violence. As the music industry grapples with these issues, the case of DigDat serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such lifestyles.
Why it Matters
The conviction of Nathan Tokosi is not just a legal outcome; it is a tragic reflection of the ongoing struggles faced by individuals drawn into cycles of violence. As communities seek safety and healing, the impact of such incidents reverberates far beyond the courtroom, prompting urgent conversations about the responsibilities of artists, the influence of music culture, and the need for support systems to redirect young lives away from violence. The hope is that this case will encourage a collective effort to foster a safer environment for all, particularly for the youth who may be influenced by the lifestyle portrayed in popular music.
