Kneecap: Police to take ‘no further action’ over Glastonbury controversy
It has been confirmed Irish rap trio Kneecap will face no further action following their Glastonbury performance in June.
Avon and Somerset Police gave the update on Friday, July 18.
Avon and Somerset Police announced they had concluded their enquiries into remarks about a forthcoming court case made during the band’s set at the Somerset festival.
“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,” the force said in a statement.
The band, comprising Liam Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and JJ O Dochartaigh, were informed of the decision earlier today.
The group responded to the news by posting a screenshot on social media of what appeared to be an email from a senior investigating officer. In their caption, Kneecap said: “One element of the political policing intimidation attempt is over.”
They added: “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.”
The investigation was initially announced in June after officers reviewed video footage and audio recordings from the sets of both Kneecap and punk duo Bob Vylan at the festival.
Police confirmed that enquiries continue to be carried out in relation to separate comments made on stage during Bob Vylan’s performance.
The comments that prompted the investigation related to band member O hAnnaidh, who performs under the name Mo Chara, being charged with a terror offence.
During the Glastonbury performance, O Caireallain, who performs under the name Moglai Bap, told the crowd they would “start a riot outside the courts” in reference to his bandmate’s upcoming court date.
He then clarified: “No riots, just love and support, and support for Palestine.”
These remarks about the forthcoming court case led to the police investigation, with officers examining whether the comments constituted any criminal offence.
The Crown Prosecution Service was consulted as part of the investigation process before the decision was made that there was insufficient evidence to pursue any charges.
The investigation into both performances was announced in June, with officers reviewing video footage and audio recordings from the festival sets.
Whilst the Kneecap investigation has now concluded, Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that separate enquiries remain ongoing regarding comments made during Bob Vylan’s performance.
The punk duo performed at the same festival, though specific details about the nature of their comments have not been disclosed by authorities.
Today’s announcement marks the end of a three-week investigation into Kneecap’s performance, which the band described as “historic” due to the area being closed an hour before their set because of crowd numbers.
The decision to take no action was made following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, with insufficient evidence cited as the reason for closing the case.