21 Savage latest: Hip hop stars share messages of support as rapper is arrested over 'expired visa'

The Atlanta-based rapper was arrested for allegedly overstaying his visa
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Hip hop stars have rallied around rapper 21 Savage with messages of support after the star was arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Spokesperson Bryan Cox said that the rapper, whose real name is Sha Yaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, is a British citizen who entered the US legally in 2005 but has since overstayed his visa, which expired in 2006.

He was arrested as part of a targeted operation in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday.

The star’s lawyer Dina LaPolt said: “We are working diligently to get Mr Abraham-Joseph out of detention while we work with the authorities to clear up any misunderstandings.”

Arrest: 21 Savage was detained by US immigration officials
AP

Responding to the shock arrest, music industry figures were quick to lend their support to the rapper, with many using the hashtag #free21savage to champion the star.

Rapper Meek Mill called for 21 Savage to be released, tweeting: “Free 21.”

Migos’ Offset wrote that the musician’s “family” would be “depending on him,” adding: “Successful black man[.] They always try some way to bring us down.”

Sound engineer Alex Tumay hit out at Twitter users sharing jokes at 21 Savage’s expense, writing: “ICE got thousands of kids separated from their parents forever and y’all quiet but y’all wanna make the lowest hanging fruit jokes for this.

“ICE arresting celebrities to divert attention from the fact they just admitted they can’t reconnect kids with their parents and y’all eating it up.”

Rapper and activist Killer Mike wrote: “My since hope is to see this young man who has made a way for himself allowed to stay and continue to prosper and grow his legacy.

“Sincere prayers for him and his family and team. @21savage should be allowed to remain in this country.”

Swizz Beatz wrote: “They hate when you escape out of your bad situation and do good! This man was on his was [sic] to more EPIC greatness and I pray this don’t stop anything. Keep your head up king.”

Singer Demi Lovato quit Twitter earlier today after she was accused of “laughing” at the rapper’s plight, having previously shared a meme that took aim at his arrest.

Lovato received a torrent of abuse on social media, which referenced her recent drug overdose and stint in rehab.

In a statement posted on Instagram, she apologised for offending his fans, but said that it was “no excuse to laugh at someone’s addiction let alone their OD.”

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