The State has withdrawn rape charges against Zimbabwean rapper Mukudzei Chitsama, popularly known as Holy Ten, citing lack of evidence to sustain a prosecution.

Holy Ten appeared before Harare magistrate Francis Mapfumo, where the state withdrew the charges relating to allegations that he had raped a 14-year-old girl.

His lawyer, Admire Rubaya, welcomed the decision, declaring that his client was now free.

“Lies have short legs. This is the end of it. My client is free. The State has seen that these charges were bogus. There was no evidence to sustain any trial,” Rubaya said.

The allegations arose from an incident said to have occurred on July 20, when the complainant and a friend allegedly visited Avondale Shopping Centre, where Holy Ten was recording music.

The State alleged that after the friend left, the rapper took the teenager to a bed-and-breakfast establishment in Hatfield, where he was staying.

It was alleged that he took her into his room, locked the door, and threatened to kill her if she did not comply with his demands.

The prosecution further alleged that after the incident, Holy Ten arranged an InDrive ride for the girl, who was dropped off at Avondale shops, where she met her aunt.

The allegations were subsequently reported, leading to the rapper’s arrest.