Fifth Harmony hit back after Camila Cabello claims they knew she was quitting

The drama surrounding Camila Cabello's abrupt departure from Fifth Harmony shows no signs of abating, after the group hit out at the 19-year-old singer's claims last night that her former bandmates did indeed know that she was planning to leave the group. Members Ally Brooke, Normani Kordei, Dinah Jane and Lauren Jauregui originally revealed news of Cabello's departure late Sunday night, saying they were only made aware of their bandmate's decision – which came the same day her contractual obligations with the group ended – after being informed “via her representatives”. A "shocked" Cabello hit back at the claim last night, describing it as "simply not true". "The girls were aware of my feelings through the long, much needed conversations about the future we had during tour", Cabello wrote. She continued: "I did not intend to leave things with Fifth Harmony this way. As sad as it is to see this chapter ending this way, I will continue to root them all on as individuals and as a group. "I wish nothing but the best for them, all the success in the world and true happiness".  

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— Camila Cabello (@camilacabello97) December 19, 2016

Unfortunately, however, true happiness seems a long way from where the remaining members of the group - who were put together during the second season of The X Factor USA four years ago - are at right now. Just hours after Cabello released her statement, the 'Work From Home' singers posted another on Twitter addressed to their fans, confirming that while Cabello's manager informed them that she would be leaving the band last month, the singer had "consistently" refused their attempts to mend the fractured band over the last 18 months. Explaining they were "truly hurt" by Cabello's departure, Normani, Ally, Dinah and Lauren wrote: "We called for group meetings which she refused, we asked [label manager] LA Reid to step in and try to set meetings, which again, she refused. We even went as far as group counselling, which she did not turn up to. "So no, after months of rejection from her and her team, these supposed lengthy conversations never happened, although we pleaded. "We have tried with exhaustive efforts and hearts to keep this group alive as the five of us, and we want to be clear that unfortunately those efforts were not mutual". In a final two fingers to the group's now-departed youngest member, they added: "We realise we would be NOTHING without Fifth Harmony and we will continue to honor that". Despite the drama, Fifth Harmony confirmed earlier this month that they are working on their third studio album. The record will serve as the the follow-up to this year’s LP 7/27, which spawned hits including 'All In My Head (Flex)' and 'That's My Girl'. Speaking of, it seems like a poignant time to revisit that particular ode to sisterhood, right? More stories: 8 fabulous Zsa Zsa Gabor quotes to help you navigate your gay life Remember Craig Dean from Hollyoaks? This is what actor Guy Burnett is up to now (NSFW)