Kneecap in the clear as British police drop Glastonbury Festival ‘riot' probe
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.
Yesterday, the group, comprised of Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh, posted a screenshot to social media from an email that appeared to be from a senior investigating officer.
One element of the political policing intimidation attempt is over
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.'
Mo Chara, DJ Provaí and Móglaí Bap of Kneecap performs on the West Holts Stage during during day four of Glastonbury 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, June 28.
Kneecap at Glastonbury. Photo: PA
Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 19th
'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.'
Bob Vylan performing on the West Holts Stage during the Glastonbury Festival (Yui Mok/PA)
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 have been in the headlines after Ó 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.
Kneecap 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.
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