In a dramatic conclusion to a cross-border manhunt, fugitive drill rapper Daniel Boakye has been arrested in France after allegedly smuggling himself out of the United Kingdom hidden inside a lorry. The 21-year-old, who had escaped lawful custody twice in recent weeks, was captured by authorities in La Bouëxière, Brittany, at approximately 8:20 PM local time on Monday, March 2, 2026.
End of a Lengthy Pursuit
The arrest marks the end of an intensive search that spanned over two weeks. British police believe Boakye managed to flee the country by concealing himself within a commercial lorry shortly after his most recent escape from custody. This incident occurred on Sunday, February 15, when he broke free from Lewisham hospital at around 3:05 PM, having been re-admitted under unclear circumstances just days prior.
A Pattern of Escapes
Boakye's history of evading authorities is notable. Initially an inmate at HMP Feltham, he first escaped from hospital on Tuesday, February 10, only to be recaptured in Thamesmead the following day. His subsequent re-admission to hospital led to this second, more daring breakout, which ultimately resulted in his international flight and capture in France.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Daniel Boakye, a resident of Alma Road in Enfield, was sentenced to six years and five months in prison in July 2023. His conviction stemmed from a series of violent knifepoint robberies targeting cryptocurrency holdings, with total losses estimated at £115,000. Additionally, The Sun reports that deportation proceedings to his native Ghana were imminent in the coming months, adding urgency to his escape attempts.
Police Efforts and Public Appeals
During the manhunt, the Metropolitan Police circulated an image of Boakye aboard a London bus, though the specific route remains unconfirmed. This public appeal was part of a broader strategy to locate the fugitive, whose capture in France now triggers extradition discussions between UK and French authorities.
Official Statements and Policy Implications
A Home Office spokesperson emphasized the government's stance on foreign national offenders, stating, "All Foreign National Offenders who receive a prison sentence in the UK are referred for deportation at the earliest opportunity. We will not allow foreign criminals and illegal migrants to exploit our laws. We are reforming human rights laws and replacing the broken appeals system so we can scale up deportations." This case highlights ongoing challenges in border security and prisoner management, particularly concerning individuals facing deportation.
The arrest underscores the complexities of modern law enforcement, where fugitives may exploit international transport networks. As Boakye awaits potential extradition, authorities are reviewing the circumstances of his escapes to prevent similar incidents, focusing on hospital security protocols and lorry inspection procedures at UK borders.
