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Irish rap trio Kneecap will face no criminal charges following a Metropolitan Police investigation into concert footage in which group members appeared to call for violence against UK politicians and express support for proscribed terrorist groups.
The videos — dating from events in 2023 and 2024 — included one clip of a performer shouting: “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.” Another widely circulated video from a November 2024 show in London captured a chant of “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah.
Counter-Terror Investigation Launched
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that its Counter Terrorism Command launched a full investigation in May 2025, prompted by public complaints and concerns raised over multiple performances. Footage was assessed by the Counter Terrorism Internet Referral Unit (CTIRU) and led to one individual being interviewed under caution.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) reviewed the evidence, but concluded that the legal threshold for criminal charges had not been met.
Official Police Statement
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated:
“A thorough investigation has now been completed. No charges will be brought.”
Kneecap: Political Controversy and Censorship Debate
The Belfast-based group — known for its political lyrics, Irish republican themes, and anti-establishment rhetoric — has frequently drawn criticism and praise in equal measure.
The decision not to prosecute will likely reignite debates around the limits of free speech, performance art, and political expression, particularly regarding comments that appear to endorse or glorify violence.
Kneecap has not issued a formal response to the Met’s update as of publication.
