Police have dropped a criminal investigation into Belfast rap trio Kneecap's performance at Glastonbury Festival. Avon and Somerset Police said they will take "no further action" due to "insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction for any offence".
The investigation was launched in June after officers reviewed video footage and audio recordings from the sets of Kneecap and punk duo Bob Vylan at the Somerset festival. The probe focused on comments made during the Irish-language rap group's performance on 28 June.
Investigation officially closed
On Friday, the group - comprised of Liam Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and JJ O Dochartaigh - posted a screenshot to social media from an email that appeared to be from a senior investigating officer. In their post caption, Kneecap said: "One element of the political policing intimidation attempt is over."
The trio described their Glastonbury performance as "historic", adding: "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."
Crown Prosecution Service advice
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed: "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 before deciding to take no further action.
Kneecap have been in the headlines after O hAnnaidh, who performs under the name Mo Chara, was charged with a terror offence. In reference to his bandmate's upcoming court date, O Caireallain, who performs under the name Moglai Bap, told the Glastonbury crowd they would "start a riot outside the courts".
He then clarified his comments, saying: "No riots, just love and support, and support for Palestine." The investigation centred on these remarks made during the band's festival performance.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
