Bob Vylan and Kneecap’s controversial Glastonbury performances spark criminal investigation as police issue statement
Avon and Somerset Police have launched a criminal investigation into performances by Bob Vylan and Kneecap at Glastonbury Festival on Saturday.
The force confirmed that video footage and audio from both acts have been reviewed.
“Following the completion of that assessment process we have decided further enquiries are required and a criminal investigation is now being undertaken,” the police stated.
A senior detective has been appointed to lead the investigation. The incidents have been recorded as public order matters whilst enquiries remain at an early stage.
Police confirmed they would be examining all appropriate legislation, including laws relating to hate crimes.
The force acknowledged receiving “a large amount of contact in relation to these events from people across the world” and recognised “the strength of public feeling” surrounding the performances.
Police emphasised that “there is absolutely no place in society for hate” as they outlined their response to Saturday’s events. The investigation will be “evidence-led” according to the force’s statement.
Neighbourhood policing teams have begun speaking with local communities and key stakeholders to ensure “anyone who needs us knows that we are here for them,” the force added.
The police asked members of the public to “refrain from continuing to report this matter to us because an investigation is already taking place.”
They expressed hope that their ongoing work would reassure the public about “how seriously we are treating Saturday’s events.”
The force did not specify what aspects of the performances had prompted the criminal investigation or provide details about the nature of the alleged incidents.
The controversy has already led to significant consequences for Bob Vylan.
The rap duo have had their US visas revoked over what were described as “hateful” Glastonbury chants, according to The Independent.
The group had been scheduled to tour in the United States later this year.
The BBC has also weighed in on the controversy, with the broadcaster stated that Bob Vylan’s coverage “should have been pulled” from their Glastonbury broadcast.
Neither the BBC statement nor the visa revocation report provided specific details about what occurred during the performances that prompted these responses.
The police statement emphasised their commitment to addressing community concerns in the wake of Saturday’s events.
Officers confirmed that neighbourhood teams were actively engaging with affected communities to provide reassurance and support.
The force’s acknowledgement of receiving contact “from people across the world” underscores the international attention the performances have attracted.
Their statement that the ongoing work should reassure the public about the seriousness of their response suggests awareness of the sensitive nature of the investigation.
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Whilst neither Avon and Somerset Police nor the media reports have disclosed specific details about what occurred during the performances, the combination of a criminal investigation, visa revocations, and the BBC’s retrospective criticism indicates the gravity of the situation.
The investigation continues as police gather evidence regarding both artists’ Saturday performances at the festival.