Police to take no further action over Kneecap's Glastonbury performance

By Shannon Cook

Police will not be taking further action against Kneecap following the the Belfast rap trio's Glastonbury performance.

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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”.

In June, the force announced they were investigating after officers reviewed video footage and audio recordings from the Glastonbury performances of Kneecap and rappers Bob Vylan.

The force said in a statement: “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 18 July).

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

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

The screenshot stated: "Following a review of the evidence, I have determined there will be no further action."

The full post from 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.

"Shortly afterwards we learn of an active police investigation. An investigation that followed after the Prime Minister himself said it "was not appropriate" we played Glastonbury.

"Walk off stage to the rapturous sounds of good people and into the creaking scheming sounds of the establishment.

"This "investigation" was reported across the world's media often with wildly misleading headlines.

"Every single person who saw our set knew no law was broken, not even close....yet the police saw fit to publicly announce they were opening an investigation."

Read more: Police say they have ‘proportionate and considered’ plan ahead of Kneecap gig in Glasgow

Read more: BBC boss Tim Davie to face grilling by MPs over Bob Vylan Glastonbury performance

The Irish rap trio slammed the action as "political", "targeted" and "state intimidation".

The statement continues: "After the media damage is inflicted and seen by millions of eyes - you receive a private email to say there's no evidence and no action - that is seen by two people only.

"There is no public apology, they don't send this to media or post it on police accounts.

"We will continue to fight.

"We will continue to win."