Thug Life Army

A massive police hunt is under way for the leader of the British rap band 'so Solid Crew'', according to ThisIsLondoon.co.

Dwayne Vincent, known as Megaman, is wanted for questioning over the ganglandstyle murder of 24-year-old Colin Scarlett.

Vincent is being sought by detectives from Operation Trident, the Scotland Yard squad which investigates gun crime in the black community.

Detectives say efforts to trace him at his usual addresses have so far failed.

His details have now been circulated to police forces across the country. Police believe the rap star is still in Britain, although a notice has also been sent to all ports and airports amid fears he may try to go abroad.

A 23-year-old man, who also has links with the rap band, has been arrested in connection with the murder after walking into a south London police station.

Mr Scarlett, who is believed to have been unconnected to the music industry, was shot in the street in Maskell Road, Tooting, at 4.45pm on 6 November.

He was found suffering from several gunshot wounds and taken to St George's Hospital where he died.

Two cars, one red and one silver, were seen leaving the scene. Detectives are investigating the possibility that the shooting-took place after an ongoing row between two groups.

So Solid Crew have been at the centre of controversy since they burst onto the British music scene three years ago with their single 21 Seconds To Go.

Several band members have been in brushes with the law while there have been a number of shooting incidents outside their concerts.

Ashley Walters, known as Asher D, was sent to a young offender institution for 18 months in 2002 after being caught in possession of a loaded gun.

Government ministers and police chiefs have accused rap and garage groups such as So Solid of glamorising guns through their lyrics and lifestyles.

However, last year Vincent made an impassioned plea for an end to the shooting on the streets. The band also performed at a concert in support of a campaign against gun crime in London.

The leader of the 30-strong band spoke out at an anti-guns conference organised after the murder of the two teenage girls shot dead in Birmingham. At the time he said: "I am totally against the use of guns.

"For many people carrying a gun is a form of protection, sometimes they just don''t have a chance. But we need to give youths options."

Two men were shot and injured at one of the group's shows at London's Astoria in 2001, although none of the group was involved.

This year, a man was jailed for life at the Old Bailey for a murder committed outside one of the band's gigs in Luton.

Anyone with information on the latest investigation should call 020 8247 4553 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111