American rapper Mos Def told to leave South Africa after arrest for using a fake passport

According to Eye Witness News, department of home affairs spokesperson, Mayihlome Tshwete, confirmed that the rapper has been "charged with usage of fraudulent travel documents and that the matter is currently before the courts."

Mayihlome also took to Twitter to explain the situation and wrote: "The Department Of Home Affairs has given Mr Smith and his family 14 days to leave the republic.

"Mr Smith was departing SA using a "World Passport", SA does not recognise a "World Passport".

"Mr Smith has been living in SA with his family without the necessary permits, he was detained upon departure for using illegal travel docs."

He added: "With regards 2 Mr Smith (Mos Def), SAPS has charged him with usage of fraudulent traveldocuments.The matter is currently before the courts.

The 42-year-old artist is said to have been living in Cape Town for the past few years.