Irish rap group Kneecap has vowed to contest terrorism-related charges filed against member Liam O’Hanna, also known as Mo Chara. The charges follow the Hezbollah Flag Incident at a London concert last year.
The Kneecap terrorism charge stems from a performance on November 21 at the O2 Forum Kentish Town. O’Hanna allegedly displayed a Hezbollah flag on stage during the concert.
The Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command launched an investigation after video footage circulated online.
Authorities said they were alerted on April 22 to content from the performance. Following a formal review, the Crown Prosecution Service authorized the charge through postal requisition concerning the incident involving a Hezbollah flag.
O’Hanna, 27, of Belfast, is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on June 18. This detail was confirmed by the Metropolitan Police in an official statement.
In response, Kneecap issued a lengthy Instagram statement. They accused the UK government of using the charge as a distraction from global humanitarian crises. The group emphasized the London concert, strongly denying any wrongdoing and criticizing what they called “political policing.”
“We deny this offence and will defend ourselves fully,” the statement read. “This is about silencing artists and limiting international freedom of expression,” they added.
The Kneecap terrorism charge has triggered widespread debate, particularly on the intersection of political activism and artistic freedom.
The group linked their prosecution to broader international issues, including the war in Gaza.
Kneecap claimed the legal action is intended to prevent them from touring or engaging youth audiences abroad. Furthermore, they accused UK authorities of ignoring international law while penalizing artists for public dissent. The flag incident at the London concert was especially concerning.
The Met Police also noted separate allegations involving chants allegedly supporting Hamas and Hezbollah, which remain under review. Kneecap has not issued direct responses to those additional claims.
The Kneecap terrorism charge marks a rare instance of Counter Terrorism Command targeting performance-related conduct at a public concert.
As the June court date approaches, both sides are preparing for a high-profile legal battle with potentially far-reaching implications.
For more entertainment developments, stay tuned to London Pulse News.
