Kneecap to face no further action from police after Glastonbury performance

A criminal investigation into the performance of Belfast rap trio Kneecap at Glastonbury Festival has been dropped by police.

Avon and Somerset Police said it will be taking “no further action” on the grounds that there is “insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction for any offence”.

The investigation was announced in June after officers reviewed video footage and audio recordings from the sets of Kneecap and punk duo Bob Vylan at the Somerset festival.

On Friday, the group, comprised of Liam Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and JJ O Dochartaigh, posted a screenshot to social media from an email that appeared to be from a senior investigating officer.

It said: “Following a review of the evidence, I have determined there will be no further action.”

In the caption of their post, Kneecap said: “One element of the political policing intimidation attempt is over.

“We played a historic set at Glastonbury. Whole area closed an hour before due to crowds. A celebration of love and solidarity. A sea of good people at the world’s most famous festival.”

Avon and Somerset Police said: “An investigation has been carried out into comments about a forthcoming court case made during Kneecap’s performance at Glastonbury Festival on Saturday 28 June.

“Detectives sought advice from the Crown Prosecution Service during their enquiries and after that advice, we have made the decision to take no further action on the grounds there is insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction for any offence.

“Kneecap was informed of that decision earlier today (Friday, July 18).

“Inquiries continue to be carried out in relation to separate comments made on stage during Bob Vylan’s performance.”

During Bob Vylan’s performance, rapper Bobby Vylan chanted “Death, death to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces)”, while a member of Kneecap suggested fans “start a riot” outside his bandmate’s upcoming court appearance, before clarifying: “No riots, just love and support.”

Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp said the outcome of the investigation is “another example of two-tier justice”, and added that the “start a riot” comment was “clearly inciting violence”.

Kneecap has been in the headlines after O hAnnaidh, who performs under the name Mo Chara, was charged with a terror offence relating to allegedly displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah.

In May, the Metropolitan Police said the group were being investigated by counter-terrorism police after videos emerged allegedly showing them shouting “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah” and “Kill your local MP”.

The group apologised to the families of murdered MPs and said they have “never supported” Hamas or Hezbollah, which are banned in the UK.

Formed in 2017, the group are known for their provocative lyrics and merchandise as well as their championing of the Irish language and pro-Palestinian stance.

Earlier in the week they announced new tour dates to play their “biggest run of shows ever” across Scotland, Wales and England.