Haftbefehl: German Rap Icon Opens Up About Relapse and Personal Tragedy
OFFENBACH, 23 February 2026 — Aykut Anhan, known professionally as Haftbefehl, has dominated German headlines this week following a series of raw admissions regarding his health and personal life. The 40-year-old rapper, widely considered the pioneer of modern German street rap, has broken his silence on a severe drug relapse that occurred shortly after the release of his Netflix documentary, Babo – die Haftbefehl-Story.
A Brutal Honesty: Relapse and the Loss of Xatar
In the latest episode of his RTL+ podcast, Nina & Aykut, the Offenbach-born artist revealed that he suffered a significant setback involving cocaine use. This relapse reportedly led to a medical emergency where the rapper fell into a coma. According to Anhan, the downward spiral was triggered by the devastating loss of his close friend and fellow rap mogul, Xatar.
The admission comes as a shock to fans who had hoped the Netflix documentary marked a turning point in his recovery. Anhan described the period following the documentary’s release as a “total crash,” highlighting the immense pressure of public scrutiny and the grief associated with losing a long-term musical collaborator.
Security Scare: Burglary at the Anhan Residence
Adding to a tumultuous week, the rapper’s family faced a direct threat last Monday, 16 February 2026. Nina Anhan, the rapper’s wife, reportedly caught burglars in the act at their home. Despite a swift police response involving a helicopter search, the perpetrators managed to escape. Nina Anhan took to social media to reassure followers that while the “shock runs deep,” she remains undeterred by the incident.
The Legacy of Aykut Anhan
Born on 16 December 1985, Haftbefehl rose to fame by blending German, Turkish, and Zazaki-Kurdish slang, creating a unique linguistic style that redefined the genre. His influence extends beyond music into acting and business, though his career has frequently been punctuated by public struggles with addiction and mental health.
Key Biographical Data
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Aykut Anhan |
| Date of Birth | 16 December 1985 |
| Place of Birth | Offenbach am Main, Germany |
| Current Age | 40 Years |
| Record Label | Urban / Universal Music |
Filmography and Media Appearances
- Dogs of Berlin (2018)
- Bullsprit (2018)
- Coup
- Babo – die Haftbefehl-Story
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Haftbefehl’s real name?
The rapper’s real name is Aykut Anhan.
What happened to Haftbefehl recently?
As of late February 2026, Haftbefehl has publicly admitted to a severe cocaine relapse and a subsequent coma following the death of his friend Xatar. Additionally, his home was targeted by burglars last week.
Where is Haftbefehl from?
He was born and raised in Offenbach am Main, Germany. His family heritage is Turkish and Zazaki-Kurdish.
Is Haftbefehl still making music?
Yes, he remains signed to Urban/Universal Music, though his recent focus has been on his podcast and the release of his Netflix documentary series.