Police Launch Criminal Investigation into Bob Vylan and Kneecap Glastonbury Performances

Avon and Somerset Police have initiated a criminal investigation into the performances of punk-rap duo Bob Vylan and Irish-language rap group Kneecap at Glastonbury Festival on Saturday, following controversial remarks made during their sets. The police have appointed a senior detective to examine whether the comments constitute a criminal offence, classifying the case as a public order incident while inquiries remain in early stages.

The investigation follows backlash over Bob Vylan’s performance, during which frontman Pascal Robinson-Foster, known as Bobby Vylan, led a chant of “death, death to the IDF [Israel Defense Forces].” The remarks, broadcast live by the BBC, sparked widespread criticism, with the corporation later admitting it should have cut away from the performance. The BBC labelled the comments antisemitic and announced a review of its live event guidelines to clarify when to halt broadcasts. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy described the scenes as “appalling and unacceptable,” raising concerns about why the feed was not immediately stopped and what due diligence was conducted prior to airing Bob Vylan’s set. Nandy confirmed she contacted the BBC’s director general and will continue discussions with the broadcaster.

Ofcom, the broadcast regulator, stated that the BBC “clearly has questions to answer” regarding its coverage. Glastonbury organisers also condemned the remarks, saying they “crossed a line.” In response, Robinson-Foster defended his stance on Instagram, stating, “I said what I said,” and framing his comments as political activism. Bob Vylan, set to tour the US later this year, have reportedly had their visas revoked. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau posted on X: “Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country.” In a video statement, Bobby Vylan criticised politicians, saying, “Calling for an end to the slaughter of innocents is never wrong,” and clarifying that his anger was directed at the Israeli military, not civilians.

The investigation also covers Kneecap’s performance, though it was not live-streamed. A largely unedited version of their set was later uploaded to the BBC’s Glastonbury highlights on iPlayer. Kneecap, known for pro-Palestinian and political statements, have previously faced controversy. Band member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, performing as Mo Chara, faces a terrorism-related charge for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a prior gig, which he denies.

The controversy has raised broader questions about the BBC’s handling of live broadcasts and the balance between free expression and responsible coverage at major events like Glastonbury.