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Hushpuppi arrives in U.S. to face charges, fraud schemes included attempts to steal $124 million from an English Premier League club

Published

4 years ago

July 3, 2020

A Dubai resident who flaunted his extravagant lifestyle on social media has arrived in the United States to face criminal charges alleging he conspired to launder hundreds of millions of dollars from business email compromise (BEC) frauds and other scams, including schemes targeting a U.S. law firm, a foreign bank and an English Premier League soccer club.

Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, 37, a.k.a. “Ray Hushpuppi” and “Hush,” a Nigerian national, arrived in Chicago Thursday evening after being expelled from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Abbas made his initial U.S. court appearance this morning in Chicago, and he is expected to be transferred to Los Angeles in the coming weeks.

Abbas was arrested last month by UAE law enforcement officials. FBI special agents earlier this week obtained custody of Abbas and brought him to the United States to face a charge of conspiring to engage in money laundering that is alleged in a criminal complaint filed on June 25 by federal prosecutors in Los Angeles.

According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, Abbas maintains social media accounts that frequently showed him in designer clothes, wearing expensive watches, and posing in or with luxury cars and charter jets. “The FBI’s investigation has revealed that Abbas finances this opulent lifestyle through crime, and that he is one of the leaders of a transnational network that facilitates computer intrusions, fraudulent schemes (including BEC schemes), and money laundering, targeting victims around the world in schemes designed to steal hundreds of millions of dollars,” according to the affidavit.

The affidavit describes BEC schemes as often involving a computer hacker gaining unauthorized access to a business’ email account, blocking or redirecting communications to and/or from that email account, and then using the compromised email account or a separate fraudulent email account to communicate with personnel from a victim company and to attempt to trick them into making an unauthorized wire transfer.

“BEC schemes are one of the most difficult cybercrimes we encounter as they typically involve a coordinated group of con artists scattered around the world who have experience with computer hacking and exploiting the international financial system,” said United States Attorney Nick Hanna. “This case targets a key player in a large, transnational conspiracy who was living an opulent lifestyle in another country while allegedly providing safe havens for stolen money around the world. As this case demonstrates, my office will continue to hold such criminals accountable, no matter where they live.”

“In 2019 alone, the FBI recorded $1.7 billion in losses by companies and individuals victimized through business email compromise scams, the type of scheme Mr. Abbas is charged with conducting from abroad,” said Paul Delacourt, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “While this arrest has effectively taken a major alleged BEC player offline, BEC scams represent the most financially costly type of scheme reported to the FBI. I urge anyone who transfers funds personally or on behalf of a company to educate themselves about BEC so they can identify this insidious scheme before losing sizable amounts of money.”

“This was a challenging case, one that spanned international boundaries, traditional financial systems and the digital sphere,” said Jesse Baker, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Los Angles Field Office. “Technology has essentially erased geographic boundaries leaving trans-national criminal syndicates to believe that they are beyond the reach of law enforcement. The success in this case was the direct result of our trusted partnerships between the Department of Justice and our federal law enforcement colleagues. These partnerships helped dismantle a sophisticated organized crime group who preyed upon unsuspecting businesses. It is thanks to these partnerships that the American people can feel a bit more secure today.”

The affidavit alleges that Abbas and others committed a BEC scheme that defrauded a client of a New York-based law firm out of approximately $922,857 in October 2019. Abbas and co-conspirators allegedly tricked one of the law firm’s paralegals into wiring money intended for the client’s real estate refinancing to a bank account that was controlled by Abbas and the co-conspirators.

The affidavit also alleges that Abbas conspired to launder funds stolen in a $14.7 million cyber-heist from a foreign financial institution in February 2019, in which the stolen money was sent to bank accounts around the world. Abbas allegedly provided a co-conspirator with two bank accounts in Europe that Abbas anticipated each would receive €5 million (about $5.6 million) of the fraudulently obtained funds.

Abbas and others further conspired to launder hundreds of millions of dollars from other fraudulent schemes and computer intrusions, including one scheme to steal £100 million (approximately $124 million) from an English Premier League soccer club, the complaint alleges.

A criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted of conspiracy to engage in money laundering, Abbas would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

The FBI led the investigation of Abbas, and the United States Secret Service was also involved and provided substantial assistance. The FBI further thanks the government of the United Arab Emirates and the Dubai Police Department for their substantial assistance.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anil J. Antony and Joseph B. Woodring of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance in this matter.

Buzz

Ghana Entertainment Awards USA Unveils Nominees for 2024 Show

Published

6 hours ago

May 11, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Ghana Entertainment Awards USA (GEAUSA) is thrilled to announce the nominees for its highly anticipated 2024 show. The event is scheduled to take place on July 6th at the prestigious Merking Hall Theatre, Kauffman Music Center, in New York City.

The GEAUSA aims to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Ghanaian and African entertainers both locally and in the diaspora. This year’s nominees represent a diverse array of talent across various entertainment categories, ranging from music and film to radio and television.

Furthermore, the GEAUSA acknowledges the contributions of online content creators, event promoters, and entrepreneurs through categories like Best Entertainment Blog, Best Event Promoter Gh/USA, and Entrepreneur of the Year.

Voting for the GEAUSA 2024 nominees is now open to the public on the official website [www.ghentawards.com]. Fans and supporters are encouraged to visit the website to cast their votes for their favorite nominees. Additionally, more information about the event can be found on the GEAUSA social media platforms: Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter [@geawardsusa].

“We are thrilled to announce the nominees for the 2024 Ghana Entertainment Awards USA,” This year’s lineup reflects the incredible talent and creativity within the Ghanaian and African entertainment industry. We look forward to celebrating these artists and their achievements at the upcoming awards show.”

For media inquiries, interview requests, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact info@ghentawards.com

About Ghana Entertainment Awards USA Ghana Entertainment Awards USA (GEAUSA) is an annual event that celebrates and honors the achievements of Ghanaian and African entertainers in the United States and beyond. Founded in [Year], the GEAUSA recognizes excellence in music, film, television, radio, fashion, and more, providing a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage and talent of Ghana and Africa.

Full List of Nominees for Ghana Entertainment Awards USA 2024

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Best music act Male – Stonebwoy

– King Promise
– Black Sherif
– Kidi
– Medikal
– Mr. Drew
– Jay Bhad
– Sarkodie
– Kuami Eugene
– Fameye
– Pappy Kojo
– Kofi Kinaata
– Shatta Wale
Best Music Act Female

– Sista Afia
– Wendy Shay
– Efya
– MzVee
– Gyakie
– Amaarae
– Adina Thembi
– Eno Barony
Best Music Group

– Keche
– R2Bees
– Lali & Lola
– Kwanpa
– Dope Nation
– Asaaka Boys
Discovery of the Year Male

– Olive the boy
– St Lenon
– Banzy Banero
– King Paluta
– Mophty
– Ben South
– Oseikrom sikanii

Discovery of the Year Female

– Aba
– Kuneli
– Titi Owusu
– Ess Thee Legend
– Abitemi
– Renner
Producer of the Year Music
- – Skonti
- – Killbeatz
- – StreetBeatz
- – Atown BSB
- – MoG Beatz
- – Afrolektra
- – Nacee
- – Tubhani Beats
- – Beats Vampire
- – Genius Selections
- – Yung Demz
- – mixMastergarzy
  Best Gospel Act Gh
- – MOG
- – Joe Mettle
- – Brother Sammy
- – Diana Hamilton
- – Celestine Donkor
- – Kofi Owusu Peprah
- – Akesse Brempong
- – Perez music
- – Great Ampong
- – Joyce Blessing
- – Piesie Esther

Best Record Label

– Grind Don’t Stop (GDS)
– Legacy Life Entertainment
– Small World records
– Flip The Music
– Lynks Entertainment
– Road Boys Association
Entrepreneur of the Year
- – Dr Pounds
- – Dblack
- – Yvonne Nelson
- – Coded 4×4
- – Victoria lebene
- – Okyeame Kwame
  Best Entertainment Blog
  - – AmeyawDebrah.com
  - – Nkonkonsah
  - – GhHyper
  - – Sika Official
  - – Blac Volta
  - – Olele Salvador
  - – SammyKay media
  - – Ronnie Is Everywhere
  - – GhKwaku
    Best Comedy Act
    - – Sdk Dele
    - – Seniorman Layla
    - – Dr Likee
    - – BenSouth
    - – OB amponsah
    - – Dkb
    - – Kwaw Weezy
    - – Jacinta
    - – MadeInGhana
    - – Kyekyeku

Best Music Video director

– Joy Williams
– Yaw Skyface
– Rex
– David Nicol Sey
– Babs’s direction
– Xbills ebenezer
– Kwame Koda
– Director Hafiz
Best Movie Act Male
- – LiWin
- – Kyekyeku
- – Dr Likee
- – Anthony Woode
- – Jeffrey Nortey
- – Darko Enock
- – Too Sweet Annan
- – Majid Michelle
  Best Movie Act female
  - – Haillie Sumney
  - – Salma Mumin
  - – Jackline Mensah
  - – Yvonne Nelson
  - – Fella Makafui
  - – Akofa Edjeani
  - – Benedicta Gafah
  - – Gloria Sarfo
  - – Roselyn Ngissah

Best radio personality male

– Nana Romeo – Accra Fm
– Giovanni Caleb – 3Fm
– Nyansa Boakwa – Happy Fm
– BrownBerry – Yfm
– NyDj – Y102.5fm
– Andy Dosty – HitzFm
– Lexis Bill – Joy FM
– Bright Kamkam Boadu – PureFm
– Halifax Ansah Addo – Okay FM
– Pm the Presenter – YFM
– Dj Reuben – Luv fm
– Dj Carlos – Filla FM
– Gee Face – Majority Radio
Best radio personality female

– Akua Sika -Happy Fm
– Naa Oyo Quartey -CitiFm
– Naa Adjele Doku – Hitz FM
– Akosua Hanson – YFM
– Aj Sarpong – 3FM
– Caroline Sampson – Asaase Radio
– Abena Soreno – Guide radio
– Ohemaa Woy3 j3 – angel Fm
– Doreen Avio – HitzFm
– Chrystal karyee – 3Fm
– Osei felicia – Onua FM
– Queen Rashida – Radio tamale
– Wendy Larie – Radio Xtra
Best TV personality male

– Jay foley – 3Music
– Giovanni Caleb – tv3
– Jason El A – Mx24Tv
– Kwaku David – citi Tv
– Yaw ofosu – Tv3
– Owuraku Ampofo – tv3
– KMJ On Air – Joy Prime
– Jay kojo Dasebre – Mx24Tv
– Saddick Adams – Angel TV

Best TV personality female

– Serwaa Amihere – GhOneTv
– Cookie Tee – tv3
– Nana Yaa Tanoa Boakye – Metro Tv
– Anita Akuffo – Tv3
– Nana Ama McBrown – Onua Tv
– Doreen Avio – joyPrime
– Adjoa Noella – tv3
– MsGee – UTV
– Roslyn Feli – Joyprime
– Mc Yaa Yeboah – Bryt TV
Best DJ Act Ghana (Dj Rab Bakari Memorial award)

– Dj Bridash
– Dj Kess
– Dj Loft
– Dj Sleek
– Dj Aroma
– Dj Wallpaper
– Dj Speech
– TMSKDJ
– MzOrstin Dj
– Dj Fletch
– ADDj
– Dj Ganj
– DjMillzy
Best Hypeman/ MC

– Mc Kojo Manuel
– Ogee the MC
– Mc Jerome
– Influence MC
– Mc big Bright
– Mc Miguel
– Eddy Acquah
– Kabutey MC
– Mensah Jnr
– BigWu
– Portfolio MC
– Como Promo

Best Entertainment TV Show

– United show Biz – UTV
– Onua Show Time – Onua TV
– Culture Daily – 3Music
– Date rush – tv3
– Breakfast Daily – CitiTV
– Rythmz Live – GhOne Tv
– Entertainment review – Metro Tv
– The Am Club – Mx24Tv
– Prime Morning – Joy Prime
Best Entertainment Radio Show

– DayBreak Hitz – Hitz Fm
– Dryve of Your lyf – yfm
– Starr chat – Starr Fm
– Brunch in the Citi – Citi FM
– Angel Drive – angel Fm
– UpAndRunning – Guide Radio
– 3fm Drive – 3FM
– Pure Fm Drive – pure FM
Best TV/radio Producer of the Year
- – Gowdwin Dogbey – Okay FM
- – Mr Haglah – Hitz FM
- – Sabog Moore Eugene – YFM
- – Isaac Owusu – UTV
- – Philip Nai – Joy fm
- – Yawa Asamoah – Metro TV
- – Mercy Bee – Happy fm
- – Deborah Twum Nicholas – 3Music
  Best Photographer
- – More Money Studios
- – Twins Don’t Beg

– Manuel fotos
– B gray Pictures
– Mr korkorte
– Rob International
Best Youtuber/Vlogger
- – Kwadwo Sheldon
- – Wode maya
- – Dj Slim
- – Kofi TV
- – Zion felix
- – Portfolio Mc
- – Magraheb
- – DJ Pakorich
- – Vimbuzz TV
- – Code Micky TV
  Best Dance act
- – DanceGod Lloyd
- – Afronitaa
- – Militant Dancers
- – Incredible zigi
- – Afrobeast
- – Endurance Grande
- – Lisa Quarma
- – AlloDany
- – Liya Dance
- – Official starter
- – Jamestown Boys
  Best Sports Personality
- – Freezy McBones – Boxing
- – Akwasi Frimpong – Bobsleding
- – Samuel Takyi – Boxing
- – Inaki Williams – ƒootball
- – Kudus Mohammed – football
- – Elizabeth Addo – football
- – Benjamin Azamati – Athlete

Best African Entertainer

– Shalipopi – Nigeria
– Kiss Daniel – Nigeria
– Davido – Nigeria
– Odumodu Black – Nigeria
– Sidney talker – Nigeria
– Broda Shaggi – Nigeria
– Dj Mapbhorisa – SA
– Tyler ICU – SA
– Tyla – SA
– Ayra Starr – Nigeria
– Rema -Nigeria
– Stanley E-Now – Cameroun
– Burna Boy – Nigeria
– Diamond platinum – Tanzania
Best African Dj

– Dj Neptune – Nigeria
– Dj Maphorisa – SA
– Dj Masterkraft – Nigeria
– Dj Spinall – Niegria
– Uncle waffles – SA
– DjTira–SA
– Dj Tunez – Nigeria
– Dj E Cool – Nigeria
Best Stylist/Fashion Brand

– Prince Gyesi
– Nuelle Bans
– Kelvin Vincent
– Free The Youth
– Quophi Akotua
– Bernard Dow
– Kulaperry Outlook
– KOD
– Abrantie Clothing
– Ophelia Crossland

– Afua Rida
– Selina Beb
– Aisha Ayensu
– Chocolate
Entertainer of the Year

– Black Sherif
– Sarkodie
– JayBhad
– Yvonne Nelson
– Nana Ama mcBrown
– Serwaa Amihere
– LiWin
– Stonebwoy
– Dr Likee
– Shatta Wale
Best Album

– planning and plotting – medikal
– 5th dimension – stonebwoy
– Light house album – akwaboa
– No more tears – efya
– Amaarae – fountain Baby
– Koinonia phase 2 – mog music
– Original – Bisa KDei
Best Music Act Gh/USA Male

– TooWan8
– QPee Vybez
– Nana NYC
– Vudumane
– Jamin Beatz
– Jay Hover
– Jr BeatBoi
– Jay Baba
– 6fo
– Dreams Gh
– CBurn
– 2Shy
Best Music Act Gh/USA female

– Empress Afi
– Ama Karin
– Baabalino
– Elizha
– Jameela
– Rie Osei
– Juicee

Best Gospel Act Gh/USA

– Richie O
– Herty Corgie
– Fritz Oakley
– Rosey musiq
– Daniel Nettey
– Nana Adwoa
– Persius Mensah
– Kwabena Boateng
– Kwame Addo
– Millicent Yankey
Best Diaspora Act
- – Ekow Judge -MC
- – Eugene Boateng – Actor
- – MC flybokoe – Mc
- – Jeremia Asiama – radio
- – Kofi Black – Music
- – Blitz De ambassador – creative director
- – Jae5 (music Producer)
  Best DJ Act Gh/USA
- – Dj TeaBee
- – Dj Akuaa
- – A1DJ
- – DJ Sabato
- – Dj Mixmaster Berto
- – Dj Rb Nice

– Dj Asumadu
– Dj killer fingers
– DJ AK47
– Dj Young Kofi
Best Africa DJ USA

– Dj tunez
– Dj Buka
– Dj Prince
– Dj Mohogany
– Dj Sydney love
– Dj Ipod
– Dj Siroreo
– Dj Millie Bass
Best online content creator USA.

– NDA Show (Naana Donkor Arthur)
– Big Scout Nana Prempeh
– Charlie Dior
– Skinny man
– Hannah Newman Conduah
– ObaaCee TV
– Cynthia Sarpong
– Dj Point 5
Best event Promoter Gh/USA. (UPDATE HERE PLEASE)

– Inside LLC
– Sarfo
– TM entertainment
– Coaches
– Nayasa ENT
– Gh Music Promo
– AK24
– Ensah Media
– Nana Frimpong
– Project 8
– Shutdown Gh

Best Music Act Gh/Canada – MrS

– Silla
– Kofi Mante
– Julius X
– Gh Cali
– Og Picasso
– R.O.Z
– Nina Ricchie
– Slim Flexx
– Friyie
Best Dj Act Gh/Canada

– Dj D0net
– Dj bravado
– Dj fiiasco
– Dj Shorty
– Dj Xbunnie
– Dj King Bizzy
– Dj KStyles
Best Hypeman/Mc Gh/Canada

– Emcee Ebone
– EMC Diiva Promo
– Mc Douglas
– Mc kaypassa
Entertainer of the Year Gh/USA

– Charlie Dior
– NDA
– Gliteratie
– Fritz Oakley
– ObaaCee TV
– 6fo
– JayHover

– Clifford owusu
– Nana NYC
Hypeman/MC of the year USA

– MC Ogee
– Gliterratie
– Clifford Owusu
– Obaa
– George Bannerman
– Kwasi Beast
– Kwe Soul
best photographer/videographer USA

– APM world
– Maxwell Jennings
– 1230 works
– Man like Jo
– JoeBaby wood
– Creative House Tv
– Nana Adom
– Source Photography
– Cody Blane studios
– Juice Big Fellow
Discovery of the Year USA

– Chanelly
– Big Geechi
– Danny Dei
– 1UCid
– King Joe
– Og Picaso
– Saucelord
– Baabalino
– XShai

Best Online Radio/Tv USA

– Sankofa Radio
– Adinkra Radio
– Joba Aba TV
– High life radio
– Revolt media
– Afro614 radio
– Mustbe5 radio
– HREtv
Best stylist/fashion Gh/USA

– Ashanti beads
– Blitz club nyc
– Kwasi kessie
– Xorlali plange
– Jess for the culture
– Style the body
– Saint Frimpong
Social Media Influencer of the Year GH

– Wesley Kesse
– Ama Burland
– Zubaida
– Yankey Himself
– Micth Brothers
– Kalyjay
– Dulcie Boateng
– Gisela Amponsah
– Delppy
– Sweet Ajeley

Buzz

Ladipoe speaks on his controversial tweet that caused chaos in the music industry

Published

23 hours ago

May 10, 2024

Emmanuel Sarpong

Nigerian rapper, Ladipo Edo known in the music circles as ladipoe has reacted to his controversial tweet which caused chaos in the Nigerian music industry.

(more…)

Buzz

We lack the necessary equipments to operate efficiently and effectively- GNFS

Published

23 hours ago

May 10, 2024

Emmanuel Sarpong

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has appealed to the government and corporate entities to provide the necessary resources to enable it to effectively and efficiently execute its mandate. (more…)

Buzz

I almost regretted coming out to say my truth – Real Warri Pikin reflects on backlash after weight loss surgery videos

Published

24 hours ago

May 10, 2024

Emmanuel Sarpong

Nigerian comedian and actress, Anita Alaire Afoke Asuohal, profssionally known as Real Warri Pikin has opened up about her experience with weight loss surgery and the scrutiny she faced afterward. (more…)

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Rising D.C. Rapper KP Skywalka Drops Highly Anticipated Sequel to “Granny’s House” With “Back To Granny’s House”

Published

1 day ago

May 10, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

KP Skywalka, the most-played rapper from the D.C. area, is poised to captivate audiences once again with the release of his latest project, “Back to Granny’s House,” set to drop on May 10th, 2024. Following the success of his previous project, “Granny’s House,” KP Skywalka is back with a sequel that promises to deliver the same soulful vibes and introspective lyricism that has made him a standout in the hip-hop scene.

Known for his distinctive blend of warm soul and ’90s and ‘70s R&B samples, KP Skywalka’s music resonates with audiences on a deeply emotional level. His doe-eyed rhymes weave tales of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, inviting listeners into his world with a raw honesty that is both abrasive and sweet. With “Back to Granny’s,” KP continues to showcase his lyrical prowess, offering a unique blend of spiritual depth and street authenticity that sets him apart from his peers.

One of the highlights of “Back to Granny’s House” is a feature from popular Detroit artist Peezy, adding an extra layer of depth and diversity to KP’s already impressive sound. Peezy’s contribution further elevates the project, promising fans an unforgettable listening experience from start to finish.

Drawing inspiration from his upbringing in the southeast neighborhoods of Washington, D.C., KP Skywalka pays homage to his roots while also infusing his music with elements of Jay-Z, young Wiz Khalifa, Boosie, and Pimp C. The result is a captivating fusion of D.C. influence and classic hip-hop swagger that showcases KP’s versatility as an artist.

As anticipation builds for the release of “Back to Granny’s House,” KP Skywalka stands as a beacon for those seeking lyrical depth and real-world resonance in their playlists. With cosigns from industry heavyweights like IDK, Veeze, and Offset, KP Skywalka is poised to make a lasting impact on the hip-hop landscape with his latest offering.

“Back to Granny’s House” will be available on all major streaming platforms on May 10th, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to experience the next chapter in KP Skywalka’s musical journey.

https://ffm.to/4k2ermp

Buzz

Social Trends: Sarkodie says Kendrick Lamar & J. Cole are his only rivals

Published

1 day ago

May 10, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

In a bold and audacious move that has set social media ablaze, Ghanaian rap sensation Sarkodie has declared his only competition in the music industry to be none other than American rap giants Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole.

Sarkodie said his only competition is Kendrick and Cole.
Nasty C and Olamide: pic.twitter.com/PR5t2ieAGn
— LERRY (@_AsiwajuLerry) May 10, 2024

The announcement, made during a promotional event for his new mixtape, has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and fellow artists alike.

Sarkodie is a better rapper than Drake and Eminem. I’m not capping.
— kofi ĀDØFÔ (@kofi_adofo69) May 10, 2024

While some have applauded Sarkodie’s confidence and ambition, others have questioned his claim, with many pointing out the vast differences in their respective fan bases and global reach.

Sarkodie says his biggest competition in rap is Kendrick Lamar & J Cole.
He is claiming to be the best rapper in Africa. Y’all Naija rappers gonna allow this? Diss his ass 😡 pic.twitter.com/7XpFZiduc5
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— DAYGENIUS (@DayGenius__) May 10, 2024

As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Sarkodie’s statement has certainly put him in the spotlight, and only time will tell if he can live up to his own lofty expectations.

You people just be shallow cos how do you understand the song title “BRAG”?
Sarkodie says his only competition is Kendrick and Cole and you say that’s not how to put it, which other way do you think he can make it seem bragging and to let African rappers know he’s above them? 😂
— Beno SarkCess (@BenopaOnyx1) May 10, 2024