Yasiin Bey (Mos Def) Arrested in South Africa

Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) has been arrested in South Africa, as the Associated Press reports (via Spin). A government spokesperson said Bey produced a false passport (described by Bey as a “world passport,” which does not exist) when trying to leave the country on Thursday. 

Bey now has 14 days to leave the country, according to a court order. The same order also means he would be barred from entering South Africa for five years, though the AP notes he could appeal for leniency. He appeared in court with family members who were also in the country without a valid permit. 

Update (1:09 p.m.): A representative for Bey tells Okayafrica that the South African government’s allegations are false. He said Bey was attempting to leave the country to perform at the Selam Music Festival in Ethiopia, and said he was using a World Passport issued by the World Service, which the South African government allegedly accepted as recently as August. (Indeed, Bey has left the country on several occasions in the last year, such as when he staged a London stand-up show in August.)

When asked if Bey is legally in South Africa, he replied, “It’s my understanding that he is.” He also said Bey does not use his U.S. passport for “social and political” reasons. 

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