By Anne Losensky
Was Arafat worth his money? “Sure!” says the witness. “Bushido started a lot of arguments that he could not have done without Arafat by his side. He could not have survived without him.”
Day 74 in the trial of clan chief Arafat Abou Chaker (46). In 2018 he is said to have demanded millions from Anis “Bushido” Ferchichi (43) for the end of their business relationship, which made them both multi-millionaires.
It’s about attempted severe predatory blackmail, the rapper is said to have been locked up, thrown at with a bottle and chair (dangerous bodily harm, deprivation of liberty, insult).
Danny B. (44) testifies as a witness. Tattooed arms, t-shirt that reads “Raw Power.” Rapper (“D-Bo”), music producer, A&R at the Swiss “iGroove” (where Bushido is also releasing today). He knows them all. He was part of the “Inner Circle”. Close to Bushido (shared apartment). Good friend with Arafat. The judge said his testimony was like a “hymn of praise to Arafat”.
The defenders only see Bushido’s motto in life: If I no longer need it, I’ll sort it out!
► “We founded the Ersguterjunge label together. Three years ago, Bushido canceled my friendship. If he got what he needed and you were no longer that useful for him, there was an announcement. In relation to other people, he makes a cost-benefit calculation.”
► “For Arafat, splitting the money was like a child’s birthday party. He said to Bushido: You 50 percent, the lawyer 20 percent, I 30 percent. Hip hop was foreign to him. Bushido rapped about things in Neukölln that he had never experienced. When the hype came later, Arafat realized what potential there was.”
people in court
► “65,000 euros were in plastic bags at Bushido at home. When Arafat found out about this, he was blown away. Bushido got past him!”
► “Arafat put his head down. Gangsta rap evolved. People who indulged in criminal acts were involved. Bushido started a lot of arguments, he couldn’t have done that without Arafat at his side. Without him he would not have survived. He ensured security. Arafat was given a great opportunity to make serious money. He kept the difficult characters in check.”
Next August 8th. Judgment on October 26th.