Sean 'Diddy' Combs accused in gang-rape of teenager in New York

Sean "Diddy" Combs performs at the BET Awards 2022 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California, U.S., June 26, 2022. REUTERS/David Swanson/ File Photo

(Reuters) - Hip-hop star Sean "Diddy" Combs was accused in federal court on Wednesday of taking part in the gang rape of a 17-year-old girl in his Manhattan recording studio in 2003, marking the fourth lawsuit leveling sexual assault allegations against him in recent weeks.

Combs, 54, founder of the landmark label Bad Boy Records and a hugely successful rap performer, issued a statement on Wednesday categorically professing his innocence and declaring his accusers were "looking for a quick payday."