Footage of rap group Kneecap allegedly calling for the death of British MPs is being assessed by counter-terrorism police. A video has emerged of the west Belfast trio at a November 2023 gig appearing to show one person from the band saying: "The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP." The Metropolitan Police also said that another video, from November last year, is being assessed. The footage appeared to show a band member shouting "up Hamas, up Hezbollah" at a performance in London. Kneecap have said on social media that they have "faced a co-ordinated smear campaign". BothHamas and Hezbollahare banned in the UK and it is a crime to express support for them. A Met Police spokesperson said: "We were made aware of a video on 22 April, believed to be from an event in November 2024, and it has been referred to the Counter Terrorism Internet Referral Unit (CTIRU) for assessment and to determine whether any further police investigation may be required. "We have also been made aware of another video believed to be from an event in November 2023." A UK government spokesman said: "We unequivocally condemn threatening remarks made towards any individual. "Political intimidation and abuse must have no place in our society. We recognise the chilling effect that harassment and intimidation of elected representatives can have on our democracy. "All reports of intimidation, harassment and threats are taken extremely seriously. We work with the police and Parliament to do everything in our power to crack down on threats to elected officials." The group has faced recent criticism after they displayed messages about the war in Gaza during their set at US music festival Coachella earlier this month. Following formerX Factor judge Sharon Osbourne calling for Kneecap's US work visasto be revoked, the band was dropped by its now-former sponsor and booking agent Independent Artist Group (IAG). Kneecap hit backand when asked by BBC News NI for a response, the band replied: "Statements aren't aggressive, murdering 20,000 children is though." The visas held by the band members are understood to no longer be valid and they are in the process of securing a new sponsor ahead of its sellout October tour in North America. Kneecap, made up of Liam Og Ó Hannaidh, Naoise Ó Caireallain and JJ Ó Dochartaigh, alleged on social media they have "faced a co-ordinated smear campaign", saying their shows have previously "called out" the conflict in Gaza. They also appeared to suggest they would be taking legal action against the "malicious efforts". Earlier in the week, Kneecap's manager Daniel Lambert said the band had received "severe" death threats after Coachella. The counter terrorism internet referral unit (CTIRU) is a national counter-terrorism policing unit based within the Met's Counter Terrorism Command which is dedicated to identifying terrorist and extremist material online. Police will carry out an investigation if the material breaches UK law.
Kneecap 'kill MP' footage being assessed by police
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Police Investigate Kneecap Footage Allegedly Inciting Violence Against MPs"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Footage featuring the rap group Kneecap is currently under review by counter-terrorism police due to alarming statements allegedly made during their performances. In a video from November 2023, a band member is reportedly heard declaring, "The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP," which has raised significant concerns regarding the incitement of violence against British politicians. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that they are also examining another video from the previous year, where a member of the band appears to support terrorist organizations by shouting, "up Hamas, up Hezbollah" during a London performance. Both Hamas and Hezbollah are banned in the UK, and expressing support for these groups is illegal. The police have referred the videos to the Counter Terrorism Internet Referral Unit (CTIRU) for further investigation to determine if any actions should be taken under UK law. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police emphasized the importance of addressing any threats made against elected officials, highlighting the negative impact such intimidation can have on democracy.
In the wake of these incidents, Kneecap has faced backlash and claims of a coordinated smear campaign against them. The group recently attracted attention after displaying messages related to the Gaza conflict during their set at the Coachella music festival, which led to significant criticism, including calls from former X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne for their US work visas to be revoked. As a result, Kneecap lost sponsorship from Independent Artist Group (IAG) and is currently navigating the complexities of securing new sponsorship for their upcoming North American tour in October. The band members, who claim to have faced severe death threats following their performance at Coachella, are reportedly in the process of obtaining new visas. They have stated their commitment to addressing the issues surrounding the Gaza conflict through their music and have suggested potential legal action against those they believe are attempting to undermine their message.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The recent news regarding the rap group Kneecap has raised several important issues, particularly related to freedom of speech, political rhetoric, and the implications of inciting violence against public figures. The footage alleging that a member of Kneecap called for the death of British MPs is now under scrutiny by counter-terrorism police, suggesting a serious legal and social context that could have wider repercussions.
Implications of the Statements
The statements made in the footage, particularly the phrase, "The only good Tory is a dead Tory," can be seen as inciting violence. Such rhetoric can create a hostile environment and can be interpreted as a direct threat to public officials. The condemnation from government officials highlights the severity of the situation, emphasizing that political intimidation must not be tolerated. This reflects a broader concern about the safety of elected representatives, especially in a climate where political discourse can quickly escalate into threats or violence.
Public Perception and Reaction
The group's response, claiming they are victims of a "coordinated smear campaign," suggests they may be trying to frame the narrative in a way that portrays them as defenders of free speech rather than instigators of violence. This could resonate with certain audiences who support artistic expression, particularly in the context of political dissent. The situation may polarize public opinion, strengthening support from their existing fan base while alienating others who view their comments as dangerous and irresponsible.
Media and Societal Context
The coverage of this event fits into a broader media narrative regarding the intersection of art, politics, and societal values. By highlighting the group's controversial statements and the subsequent police investigation, the media influences public discourse around freedom of expression and the limits of artistic license in political commentary. The concern about violence against MPs touches on a vital aspect of democratic society, where threats can undermine public trust and participation in politics.
Potential Economic and Political Repercussions
The fallout from this situation could impact Kneecap’s career, particularly regarding sponsorships and performance opportunities, as evidenced by their recent loss of a booking agent. This could have economic implications not only for the band but also for venues and festivals that may choose to avoid controversy by not featuring them. Politically, the situation may provoke discussions about free speech laws and the role of art in political protest, potentially leading to calls for stricter regulations on public expressions of support for banned organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Support and Target Audience
The group likely appeals to communities that value direct political engagement and may feel marginalized by mainstream political discourse. Their messages may resonate particularly with younger audiences or those sympathetic to anti-establishment sentiments. However, this incident could also alienate potential supporters who prioritize the safety and respect of public officials.
Global Context and Power Dynamics
In a broader sense, this incident touches on issues of global political dynamics, particularly in relation to movements advocating for Palestinian rights. The mention of Hamas and Hezbollah invokes international debates about terrorism, statehood, and resistance. The timing of this news, amid ongoing conflicts, could amplify its relevance and impact on public sentiment regarding international relations.
Artificial Intelligence Influence
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this news article, but algorithms may have played a role in how the story was framed or disseminated through media outlets. If AI were involved, it could have influenced the selection of language or the emphasis placed on specific elements of the story, steering public perception towards certain interpretations.
In conclusion, the reliability of this news can be assessed as high due to its basis in police investigation and official statements. However, the potential for manipulation lies in the framing of the narrative by both the media and the group involved, as well as the broader societal implications of the statements made. The article serves not only as a report on events but also as a catalyst for discussion about the limits of artistic expression and political speech.