Police have launched an investigation into Bobby Vylan chants heard during a protest in central London. Officers began reviewing footage after a speech by Bobby Vylan at an Al-Quds Day demonstration.
The musician, part of the punk duo Bob Vylan, addressed protesters during the gathering. Videos circulating online show him leading chants directed at the Israel Defense Forces. Crowds joined the chant as the rally continued. The footage quickly spread across social media and prompted widespread criticism.
In response, the Metropolitan Police confirmed officers are investigating the incident. Police said they understand the concern the footage caused, especially among London’s Jewish communities. Authorities will review the available evidence and decide whether further action is required. Officials may also seek legal advice from the Crown Prosecution Service.
Police previously reviewed similar chants involving the group at a 2025 performance during Glastonbury Festival. At that time, prosecutors concluded the available evidence did not support criminal charges. A spokesperson for the prosecution service said lawyers carefully examine every case before deciding whether to bring charges. If evidence meets the legal threshold, prosecutors will pursue the case in court.
Meanwhile, police confirmed they arrested twelve people during the protests. Officers detained individuals for alleged offences including supporting a banned organisation, affray, dangerous driving and abusive behaviour. The demonstration took place along the River Thames near Lambeth Bridge. Police deployed about 1,000 officers to manage the situation and keep rival groups apart.
Hundreds of demonstrators attended the event organised by the Islamic Human Rights Commission. The group described the gathering as a pro-Palestinian protest. However, police have previously claimed that some organisers support the Iranian government. Several participants waved Iranian flags and carried placards during the demonstration.
Some protesters also chanted political slogans and displayed images of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Al-Quds Day events occur in many countries each year. The protest traces its origins to the Iranian Revolution. Demonstrations usually take place on the last Friday of Ramadan.
At the same time, counter-protesters gathered across the river. Groups including Stop the Hate UK and Lion Guard of Iran organised the opposing rally. Participants in the counter-protest waved Israeli flags and displayed signs condemning militant groups. Police used the river as a barrier to keep the opposing crowds apart.
Earlier, Shabana Mahmood approved a request from the Metropolitan Police to ban the annual march linked to the event. Authorities imposed the restriction because officers feared potential public disorder. Although the government banned marching, the law still allows static protests. Organisers therefore continued with a stationary demonstration instead.
Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan later said police operations worked as planned. He noted that attendance numbers remained lower than officials had expected. Investigators will now continue reviewing the Bobby Vylan chants. Police say they will take further action if the evidence shows criminal offences occurred.
For more updates on this news, follow London Pulse News.
