Rapper MHD: 18-year prison term sought in murder trial

The highly publicized trial of rapper MHD, whose real name is Mohamed Sylla, which began over two weeks ago in the Paris assize court, has reached its climax. On Thursday, September 21, the prosecutor requested an eighteen-year prison sentence for the rapper, who is being tried for his alleged involvement in the murder of a young man during a violent clash between rival gangs in Paris in July 2018.

The prosecutor also sought prison terms ranging from 13 to 20 years for six other co-defendants, one of whom is on the run and being tried in absentia. However, acquittal was requested for two men.

The prosecution relies on carefully examined pieces of evidence, with the magistrate asserting that the defendants’ participation in the murder has been established through the analysis of evidence found away from the crime scene. Among the heaviest sentences, Younousse S., currently in fugitive status, faces a 20-year prison term because his DNA was found on one of the knives used in the murder.

During his plea, the attorney general highlighted MHD’s alleged role in the incident. He accused the rapper of constantly seeking refuge behind the “rumor” of the housing project to evade responsibility. According to the prosecutor, MHD was clearly identified in a video of the scene, where he appeared to drag the victim by the feet and kick him twice, which would be indicative of guilt.

Despite the presented incriminating evidence, the defense also had the opportunity to argue for the acquittal of two defendants. One of them, Wissem E., was described as definitely absent during the attack, while Moussa K. benefited from the “benefit of the doubt” due to uncertainty surrounding his identification at the scene.

The lawyer for the civil party, Me Juliette Chapelle, emphasized the importance of delivering a verdict that sends a “strong signal to the justice system” in the face of the “climate of terror” that prevailed during the proceedings. She pointed out that not even witnesses cited by the defense dared to appear in court, illustrating the fear surrounding this case.

MHD’s trial, marked by twists and turns throughout its hearings, continues with the defense’s pleas this afternoon. The outcome of this trial will not only influence the life and career of the rapper but also raise broader questions about urban violence and the need to break the silence surrounding such events.