The R&B singer - real name Casandra Ventura - alleged she was trafficked, raped, plied with drugs and viciously beaten by the rapper on many occasions over the course of 10 years.

In a statement, a lawyer for Combs, 54, had said he "vehemently denies these offensive and outrageous allegations".

The settlement was announced in a release sent by lawyer Douglas Wigdor, who represents Ventura.

The release said they had reached a deal to their "mutual satisfaction" on Friday evening, but no terms of the agreement were disclosed.

Both Ventura and Combs released statements.

Ventura said in her statement: "I have decided to resolve this matter amicably on terms that I have some level of control. I want to thank my family, fans and lawyers for their unwavering support."

Her lawyer, Mr Wigdor, said in his statement: "I am very proud of Ms Ventura for having the strength to go public with her lawsuit. She ought to be commended for doing so."

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Combs said in his statement: "We have decided to resolve this matter amicably. I wish Cassie and her family all the best. Love."

Combs, among the most influential hip-hop producers and executives of the past 30 years, began dating Ventura in 2007 and had an on-and-off relationship for more than a decade.