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A student cleared of rape is suing police after they hid texts proving his innocence.

Liam Allan, 22, said he lived in “a terrible limbo” of two years on bail as police sat on 40,000 messages from his accuser, who alleged 12 sex attacks.

The case was thrown out last week when the texts, including requests for sex, were revealed.

Mr Allan, a criminology student, said he has “no choice” but to sue police and the Crown Prosecution Service, who have yet to offer an apology.

(Image: Getty Images Europe)

But he added: “I’m happy to work with the CPS and police to help ensure things change.”

A judge at Croydon crown court called for an inquiry.

The Met is investigating after a new prosecutor found the messages.

Mr Allan of Penge, South East London, said: “For two years I haven’t slept properly.”

He had faced 20 years in jail if guilty.