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Kneecap's Glasgow show sees 'proportionate and considered policing plan' in place

Kneecap's Glasgow show sees 'proportionate and considered policing plan' in place

RTÉ News​16 hours ago
Police Scotland said it has a "proportionate and considered policing plan" ahead of Kneecap's gig in Glasgow tonight, which replaces their cancelled slot at the TRNSMT festival.
Kneecap were axed from the line-up of TRNSMT in the city amid a row over an investigation by British counter-terror police into rapper Mo Chara, who is accused of terrorism offences related to a Hezbollah flag he allegedly held up on stage in London last year.
The Belfast rap group have been outspoken critics of the war in Gaza and claim the prosecution - following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police - is linked to their views on Palestine.
TRNSMT cancelled Kneecap's performance at the end of May over safety concerns by Police Scotland.
On Tuesday night, they are set to perform a sold-out gig at the O2 Academy in Glasgow, days before TRNSMT begins on Friday.
As well as Kneecap, Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar also have shows in Glasgow on Tuesday.
Police Scotland said it will aim to minimise disruption in the city.
In May, Scottish First Minister John Swinney urged for TRNSMT to cancel Kneecap's performance on 11 July, saying that "organisers of TRNSMT have got to consider that issue".
Mo Chara, whose real name is Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh was charged under the name Liam O'Hanna by the Metropolitan Police in May, over the alleged display of a Hezbollah flag at a gig.
He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 18 June and was released on unconditional bail until the next hearing on 20 August.
The furore led to calls from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch for Glastonbury to cancel a performance from the Belfast rappers on 28 June, which the festival organisers did not do.
Despite being cancelled from TRNSMT, Kneecap are still due to perform scheduled shows at the 2000trees festival in Gloucestershire on 10 July, Wythenshawe Park in Manchester on 15 August, and Belfast Vital on 29 August - nine days after Liam Ó hAnnaidh's next court appearance.
Kneecap have said they have "never supported" Hamas or Hezbollah, which are banned in the UK.
Police Scotland Superintendent Paul Douglas said: "We are aware of a number of events and concerts due to take place in the Greater Glasgow area in the week beginning Monday July 7 2025.
"A proportionate and considered policing plan is in place within the city, and we are working with a number of stakeholders to ensure the safety of all those attending these events and where possible minimise disruption to the people of Glasgow."
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