Kneecap have confirmed that Avon and Somerset Police will take no further action following an investigation into their performance at the June Glastonbury Festival.
The Northern Irish hip-hop trio, consisting of Mo Chara (Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh), Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí, were under scrutiny alongside fellow Glastonbury performer Bob Vylan. The investigation stemmed from lyrics allegedly encouraging the crowd to “start a riot,” which followed Mo Chara’s court appearance.
At the time, a police spokesperson described the situation as a “public order incident,” stressing that the inquiry would be evidence-led and take into account all applicable legislation, including hate crime laws. The police also acknowledged the strong public reactions worldwide, reaffirming their stance that hate has no place in society.
READ MORE: Clarks Village Launches Mini Golf Course and Ice Cream Kiosk for Summer Fun
READ MORE: New One Stop Store Opens in Somerset with Post Office and Great Deals on Essentials
Recently, Kneecap shared an official email confirming that after reviewing the evidence, Avon and Somerset Police have decided to close the investigation due to insufficient grounds for prosecution. The email, addressed to their legal representatives, noted there would be no further action.
Responding via social media, Kneecap declared the closure of the probe “one element of the political policing intimidation attempt is over.” They described their Glastonbury performance as historic, emphasizing it was a celebration of “love and solidarity” amid large, enthusiastic crowds. The group criticized the police investigation as politically motivated and an act of state intimidation, pointing out that the public announcement of the probe caused widespread media coverage with misleading headlines. Meanwhile, the conclusion of the investigation was quietly communicated without public apology or media update.
Avon and Somerset Police released a statement confirming that after consulting with the Crown Prosecution Service, they found insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction. They also noted that inquiries regarding separate remarks made during Bob Vylan’s performance remain ongoing.
Kneecap vow to continue their activism and confront what they describe as political targeting, reinforcing their resolve to prevail despite the controversy.