Police Assess Kneecap Performances for Alleged Incitement to Violence

Counter-terrorism officers are currently evaluating two separate videos involving the Northern Irish rap group Kneecap. One clip from November 2023 allegedly features a member encouraging violence against Conservative MPs by saying, ‘The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.’ Another video, from the same month, reportedly shows a member voicing support for Hamas and Hezbollah, both classified as terrorist organizations in the UK. The Metropolitan Police’s counter-terrorism internet referral unit is examining both videos to determine if formal investigations are necessary. In response, Kneecap has dismissed the inquiries as a ‘coordinated smear campaign,’ stating that their performances aim to criticize the British and Irish governments’ involvement in global conflicts. This situation occurs against a sensitive backdrop, as two British MPs have been murdered in the last decade. The UK government strongly condemned any threats against elected officials, emphasizing the potential damage such intimidation could have on democratic processes. Sky News has reached out to Kneecap’s management for additional comment.