Counter-Terrorism Police Investigate Second Kneecap Gig Video

Explore the ongoing investigation into Kneecap's gig footage and the implications surrounding it.

Introduction

The police are currently reviewing a second video from a Kneecap gig, which allegedly shows the group inciting violence against Conservative Members of Parliament. This situation has raised significant concerns and sparked discussions about freedom of speech and the limits of artistic expression.

Investigation Overview

As reported by sources, the footage in question is believed to be from a show that took place in November 2023. During this concert, a member of the West Belfast trio reportedly told the audience, “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.” This explicit statement has led to a serious examination by law enforcement.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that counter-terrorism police are also looking into footage from another concert at London’s O2 Kentish Town in November 2024. In this clip, a band member can be heard shouting, “up Hamas, up Hezbollah,” while displaying a Hezbollah flag. Given that both Hamas and Hezbollah are categorized as proscribed terrorist organizations, making such statements could lead to legal ramifications under the Terrorism Act 2000, which prohibits inviting support for these organizations.

Police Response

Commenting on the second video, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated:

“We were made aware of a video on April 22, believed to be from an event in November 2024, and it has been referred to the counter-terrorism internet referral unit for assessment and to determine whether any further police investigation may be required.”

Additionally, they acknowledged having received another video from an event in November 2023, with the goal of assessing both clips to ascertain if further investigation is warranted.

Kneecap's Reaction

Kneecap has responded to the initial clip being under investigation by sharing a post on social media. The graphic they shared read, “18 Months Of Genocide Footage Not Under Investigation By UK Counter-Terror Police,” accompanied by the caption “some facts.” This move illustrates their stance on the perceived bias against their message and highlights their focus on political issues.

The band has a history of conflicts with the Conservative Party. They accused the previous government of attempting to silence them by blocking their BPI funding. This funding was reportedly halted due to a provocative 2019 anti-DUP tour poster that they claimed upset Conservative officials. A subsequent court ruling deemed this action illegal, resulting in Kneecap receiving a £14,250 prize, which they donated to two charities in Belfast.

Political Fallout

The situation escalated when Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch shared concert footage on social media, stating:

“In government, I blocked Kneecap from getting taxpayer funding. Labour didn’t contest the legal case the band brought, and they walked away with £14,250 of OUR money. Perhaps now Labour sees Kneecap openly glorifying evil terror groups, they will apologize for rolling over. But I doubt it.”

Kneecap’s anti-Tory sentiments were notably accentuated during their performances at Coachella, where they led the audience in chants such as “Maggie’s in a box,” referring to the late Conservative prime minister Margaret Thatcher. This political commentary led to calls from public figures like Sharon Osbourne to revoke their working visas due to the provocative nature of their performances.

The Coachella Controversy

Their Coachella performances were met with mixed reactions, with some describing the organizers as “blindsided” by the band’s politically charged messages. Kneecap displayed pro-Palestine projections and encouraged the audience to chant “Free, Free Palestine,” which further ignited debate around their artistic expression.

In light of this controversy, Kneecap characterized the backlash as a “coordinated smear campaign” aimed at undermining their message about the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. They emphasized their commitment to speaking truthfully about issues facing the communities they represent.

Commitment to Advocacy

Kneecap has expressed ongoing concern for the plight of the Palestinian people, stating:

“What we care about is that governments of the countries we perform in are enabling some of the most horrific crimes of our lifetimes — and we will not stay silent. No media spin will change this.”

They have used their platform to raise awareness and funds for humanitarian efforts, showcasing their commitment to social justice.

The group are reportedly now in the process of securing a new sponsor for renewed US visas for their October tour after they were dropped by their former sponsor and booking agent.

Kneecap were on the cover of NME in June 2024, where they spoke about their dislike for violence. “Obviously I can’t speak for what happened before me,” said Mo Chara, sharing his sympathy for what past generations went through. “But we don’t support violence as that doesn’t make any sense any more.”

Last year, the band shared their ’10 rules to live by’, which included: “Be outspoken, leave your mark and stand up for your people. Stand up for Palestine, and stand up for oppressed people around the world.”

In keeping with this rule, in November, Bap raised over £30,000 for Gaza food parcels by running 10k a day on tour, the trio made headlines for refusing to take off their Palestine badges in an appearance on Ireland’s Late Late Show, and arranged a Gig for Gaza charity show alongside Primal Scream and Paul Weller.

Also in 2024, the band joined Massive Attack, Nova Twins and more in condemning the far-right riots across the UK following the Southport mass stabbings, and used their massive set at Reading Festival 2024 to denounce anti-immigration riots and “that far-right shite”.

Two British MPs have been murdered in the past 10 years – Labour’s Jo Cox in 2016 and Conservative David Amess in 2021.

Conclusion

Kneecap’s journey reflects the complexities of navigating the intersection of art, politics, and societal issues. As they face scrutiny from authorities, their commitment to their message remains clear. Will Kneecap continue to challenge the status quo, and how will this ongoing investigation unfold?

FAQs

• What actions are Kneecap being investigated for? Kneecap is under investigation for allegedly inciting violence against Conservative MPs during their concerts.
• What did the police say about the videos? The police are assessing two videos believed to be from Kneecap gigs to determine if further investigation is needed.
• What is Kneecap's stance on political issues? Kneecap actively uses their music and performances to highlight social injustices, particularly concerning the Palestinian cause.
• How have political figures reacted to Kneecap's performances? Some political figures, like Kemi Badenoch, have criticized the band for their statements and called for action against them.
• What was the outcome of Kneecap's funding block? A court ruled the funding block illegal, and Kneecap received £14,250, which they donated to charities in Belfast.

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