Police have a well-thought-out plan for Glasgow Kneecap show.
Police Scotland has put together a diligent plan in preparation for Kneecap’s upcoming gig in Glasgow, which is set to replace their canceled appearance at the TRNSMT festival.
The controversial Irish rap group, Kneecap, found themselves removed from the TRNSMT lineup amidst a dispute involving a counter-terror police investigation concerning Mo Chara, who faces allegations of terrorism offenses following an incident involving a Hezbollah flag that was reportedly displayed during one of their performances. Singing in Irish, Kneecap has been vocal about their opposition to the conflict in Gaza, attributing the subsequent legal proceedings – initiated after an inquiry by the Metropolitan Police – to their stance on Palestine.
TRNSMT decided to pull the plug on Kneecap’s set at the end of May due to safety concerns raised by Police Scotland. Nevertheless, the band is scheduled to headline a sold-out show at the Glasgow O2 Academy just days before the commencement of the TRNSMT festival, alongside other notable performances by artists like Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar.
With the anticipation of potential disruptions in the city, Police Scotland has assured that they intend to keep disturbances to a minimum during Kneecap’s show. During May, First Minister John Swinney urged TRNSMT organizers to reconsider their decision to host the band on July 11, emphasizing the importance of carefully addressing the situation.
Mo Chara, also known as Liam Og O hAnnaidh, faced charges by the Metropolitan Police in relation to the alleged exhibition of a Hezbollah flag during a live performance and he made an appearance before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on June 18. The ensuing controversy prompted calls from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch urging Glastonbury to halt a performance by Kneecap on June 28, a request that went unheeded.
Despite the setback at TRNSMT, Kneecap is still slated to perform at various venues including the 2000trees rock festival on July 10, Wythenshawe Park in Manchester on August 15, and Belfast Vital on August 29, shortly after O hAnnaidh’s next court appearance.
Superintendent Paul Douglas stated, “We are aware of a number of events and concerts due to take place in the Greater Glasgow area in the week beginning Monday, July 7, 2025. A proportionate and considered policing plan is in place within the city and we are collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure the safety of all attendees and minimize disruption for the residents of Glasgow.”