Multiple properties belonging to Sean "Diddy" Combs have been searched by US Homeland Security.
The rapper and music executive - who is formerly known as Puff Daddy - is facing civil lawsuits over alleged sexual assault and sex trafficking.
This all began last November when the 54-year-old's former girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie, filed an explosive lawsuit against him, accusing him of physically and sexually abusing her for years.
The rapper settled the lawsuit within a day, but since then, more people have sued Combs, accusing him of a wide range of abusive behavior, including sexual harassment, rape, nonconsensual adult material, and sex trafficking
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed on Monday (March 25) that agents have raided properties in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York that belong to Combs.
In a statement, they wrote: "Earlier today, Homeland Security Investigations New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners," per The Independent. "We will provide further information as it becomes available."
NBC News has cited an unnamed source and reported that three women and a man were interviewed by federal officials in Manhattan. The outlet added that three other interviews are scheduled regarding allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and the solicitation and distribution of illegal substances and firearms.
Fox 11 has also shared footage of the raid taken from an overhead helicopter that shows multiple unnamed people in handcuffs outside the property.
It remains unclear whether Combs was the target of the investigation.
Combs is among the most influential hip-hop producers and executives of the past three decades. He is the founder of Bad Boy Records and helped launch the career of several artists including Notorious BIG, Mary J Blige, Usher, Lil Kim, Faith Evans, and 112.
After Cassie filed a lawsuit against the music mogul in November, Combs temporarily stepped down as chairman of Revolt, the media company he founded in 2013.
"While Mr. Combs has previously had no operational or day-to-day role in the business," the company said in a statement. "This decision helps to ensure that Revolt remains steadfastly focused on our mission to create meaningful content for the culture and amplify the voices of all Black people throughout this country and the African diaspora."
In addition to this, Variety reported that a reality show featuring the executive and his family was scrapped following the accusations.
The following month, the father-of-seven took to Instagram to issue a statement denying the damning allegations against him, writing: "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. For the last couple of weeks, I have sat silently and watched people try to assassinate my character, destroy my reputation and my legacy."
"Sickening allegations have been made against me by individuals looking for a quick payday. Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family, and for the truth," he added.
