50 Cent Denounces Gang Ties Amid Ex-G-Unit Member’s Asylum Claim in UK
50 Cent is making headlines, not for his music or business ventures this time, but for a controversy surrounding a former G-Unit affiliate, Bang Em Smurf. Smurf's asylum claim in the UK has dragged 50 Cent into the spotlight, prompting the rapper to publicly distance himself from any alleged gang connections.
The saga began when UK newspaper The Sun reported that Bang Em Smurf, real name Daniel Calliste, was residing in a government-funded hotel for asylum seekers. Calliste claims he fled Trinidad due to “safety” concerns from gangs. The headline? “50 Cent Rapper Lives At Asylum Hotel.”
50 Cent didn't take kindly to being linked to the story. He swiftly took to Instagram to express his frustration, stating, "I haven’t spoken to this guy in 23 years, I hate that my name is attached to this. I in no way have any association or connection to gangs. I AM NOT GANG GANG!" His strong denial underscores his desire to maintain a clean image, crucial for his numerous business endeavors.
Adding another layer to the drama, Bang Em Smurf also refuted the report, telling The Sun, "There ain’t no story. You're talking to the horse's mouth. I'm telling you, that's fake news."
The relationship between 50 Cent and Bang Em Smurf has been fraught with tension for two decades. Smurf has previously alleged that 50 Cent put a hit out on him, further complicating the narrative.
According to reports, Calliste entered the UK claiming Universal planned to adapt his 2018 memoir, *Wisdom of a Wolf: The G Behind the Unit*, into a film. However, his asylum application has reportedly been rejected, with deportation back to Trinidad looming.
Regardless of the truth behind Bang Em Smurf's situation, 50 Cent's forceful response highlights the importance of his brand and the lengths he will go to distance himself from any perceived gang affiliations. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by artists who strive to evolve beyond their past associations. Is 50 Cent's disavowal enough to sever the link in the public eye? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
