We recently reported that Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, had been detained in Capte Town where he resides, over attempting to the leave the country on an invalid "World Passport," which is not recognized as valid identification.

It's now been announced that Bey has been officially charged over the offence. He has reportedly been released on a $US300 bail, and must report to police every two days in the lead up to his court date on March 8.

Since the arrest, Bey also released a statement in the form of a freestyle via Kanye West's own website and social media.

First referencing West's latest two tracks, "No More Parties in L.A." - “No more parties in S.A.” and "Real Friends" - "Thank you, Kanye West, for being a real friend," he then speaks out against his accusers.

“I’ve committed no crime/ Why’s the state wasting my time/ They must be out of their minds,” Bey raps, adding, “This is not an expression of fear/ This is just to make things clear/ My intentions are pure in coming here.”

“I have reason to believe or suspect there are political motivations behind the way I’m being treated, because this is following no reasonable train of logic, and it’s also curious,” he also said. “I haven’t broken any law, and I’m being treated like a criminal.”

The message ends with Bey thanking Michael Jackson's family, Kanye West, Talib Kweli and more, before concluding on a prayer.

The statement also serves as an announcement of Bey's retirement from music and acting, "effective immediately" following his final album, set to be released later this year.

Listen to the full freestyle below:

 
Image: TogetherBoston