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3h ago

UK Court Throws Out Terror Charge Against Kneecap Rapper on Statutory Technicality

The ruling hinged on prosecutors missing the six‑month consent deadline.

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A sign that reads "CNOC Kneecap Hill" is placed next to the Irish and Palestinian flags outside the Woolwich Crown Court on the day Kneecap member Liam O'Hanna, also known as Liam Og O hAnnaidh and performing under the name of Mo Chara, who has been charged with a terrorism offence in relation to the alleged display of a Hezbollah flag onstage in 2024, appears in court, in London, Britain, September 26, 2025. REUTERS/Maja Smiejkowska
Police officers walk outside the Woolwich Crown Court ahead of the hearing of Kneecap member Liam O'Hanna, also known as Liam Og O hAnnaidh and performing under the name of Mo Chara, who has been charged with a terrorism offence in relation to the alleged display of a Hezbollah flag onstage in 2024, in London, Britain, September 26, 2025. REUTERS/Maja Smiejkowska
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Overview

  • Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled the proceedings against Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh unlawful and null because DPP and attorney general consent was not in place within the statutory window, leaving the court without jurisdiction.
  • The case arose from an allegation that he displayed a Hezbollah flag at a November 2024 London gig; he denied wrongdoing and Kneecap say they have never supported Hezbollah or Hamas.
  • Cheers greeted the decision in court and outside, and Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill publicly welcomed the judgment.
  • The Metropolitan Police said they will work with the Crown Prosecution Service to assess the ruling’s implications, and the CPS is reviewing the decision with an appeal possible.
  • The proceedings have already affected Kneecap’s touring, including bans in Canada and Hungary, canceled shows in parts of Europe, and a postponed 15‑date U.S. tour.