Rapper/actor Mos Def was arrested at an airport in South Africa on Thursday (14Jan16) for allegedly traveling without a valid passport.

The hip-hop star, also known as Yasiin Bey, was detained for allegedly possessing an incorrect travel document when trying to depart from Cape Town International Airport.

Department of Home Affairs spokesman Mayihlome Tshwete said Mos Def told authorities that he was carrying a "world passport", but the official insisted to The Associated Press, "there is no such thing".

According to Timeslive.co.za, Tshwete wrote on Twitter.com, "The South African Police Service (SAPS) has charged him with usage of fraudulent travel documents. The matter is currently before the courts... Mr Smith has been living in SA with his family without the necessary permits‚ he was detained upon departure for using illegal travel documents."

The rapper, real name Dante Smith, is scheduled to appear at Bellville Magistrate's Court on Friday (15Jan16).

The 42 year old has been living in South Africa since May, 2013.