Investigation after outrage at shows

A CRIMINAL investigation is under way after the performances of Bob Vylan and Kneecap at Glastonbury Festival, police have confirmed.

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During Bob Vylan’s performance, rapper Bobby Vylan chanted “death, death to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces)”, while a member of Belfast rap group Kneecap suggested fans “start a riot” outside his bandmate’s upcoming court appearance.

Several politicians had called for the group to be removed from the line-up and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said their performance would not be “appropriate”.

Avon and Somerset Police said officers had reviewed video footage and audio recordings from the sets at the Somerset festival on Saturday.

The force said a criminal investigation is under way with a senior detective appointed to lead the investigation.

A police spokesman said: “This has been recorded as a public order incident at this time while our inquiries are at an early stage. The investigation will be evidence-led and will closely consider all appropriate legislation, including relating to hate crimes. We have received a large amount of contact in relation to these events from people across the world and recognise the strength of public feeling. There is absolutely no place in society for hate.”

The force asked members of the public to stop reporting the matter because an investigation is already taking place.

The BBC has expressed its regret at not pulling the live stream of Bob Vylan’s performance, saying the “antisemitic sentiments” expressed were “utterly unacceptable”.