British rapper Ghetts has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for his role in a fatal hit-and-run accident, which resulted in the tragic death of a 20-year-old student, Yubin Tamang. The incident occurred on October 18, 2025, when Ghetts, driving under the influence of alcohol, failed to stop after hitting Tamang in northeast London. This is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.
The court heard that Ghetts, whose real name is Justin Clarke-Samuel, was speeding and over the legal drink-drive limit when his BMW collided with Tamang. The young student had come to the UK for studies, hoping to pursue a world-class degree. However, his life was cut short due to Ghetts' reckless behavior. Tamang's mother, Sharmila, wept in court, expressing her anguish and the profound loss her son's death has brought to their family.
The impact of this incident extends beyond the loss of a promising life. Tamang's roommate, Sushant Khadka, emphasized the devastating effect on others, highlighting the shattered dreams and ambitions of a young man who had so much to offer. The court was shown CCTV footage, which revealed a series of dangerous driving incidents leading up to the fatal collision, described as 'appalling' by the judge.
The prosecutor, Philip McGhee, detailed Ghetts' actions, including driving at excessive speeds, ignoring red lights, and mounting the curb, causing damage to other vehicles. The rapper's decision to flee the scene and not call emergency services further exacerbated the tragedy. Ghetts' lack of remorse and history of criminal behavior, including previous convictions for robbery and vehicle-related offenses, have contributed to the severity of the sentence.
Despite the severity of the crime, the judge acknowledged Ghetts' 'genuine remorse' and letters of support from his partner and others, praising his positive impact on the community through his music. However, the judge emphasized the need for accountability and justice, sentencing Ghetts to 12 years in prison and disqualifying him from driving for 17 years. This case serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of responsible behavior on the roads and the potential consequences of ignoring the law.
