Rapper Romeo faces knife charges

A former member of notorious pop group So Solid Crew appeared in court today accused of being involved in a knife attack on a man.

Romeo, aged 24, is charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and violent disorder along with two of his brothers and another man.

The allegation involves a fight in a car park behind a fire station in Shaftesbury Avenue, central London, Peter Lancaster, prosecuting, told Southwark Crown Court.

Rapper Romeo, real name Marvin Dawkins, has been in custody since being arrested the day after the alleged assault but was released on conditional bail after a successful application bid.

Also appearing in custody was Julian Dawkins, aged 26, of Rotherhithe, south-east London, and Thomas Engola, aged 27, of Battersea, south-west London.

Nathan Dawkins, aged 18, of Southfields, south-west London, appeared on bail.

No other bail applications were made.

Romeo has recently launched a successful solo career and his single I See Gulls was used by Lynx as part of an advertising campaign.

He also appeared in the Channel 4 show The Games.

The rapper was released on condition he lived at an address in Rotherhithe, did not enter certain parts of central London and observed a home curfew between 7pm and 7am.

The four defendants are due to appear again at the Central London Court on September 27 for plea and directions hearings.