Terror charges against Kneecap rapper cannot continue, court says

Terror charges against Kneecap rapper Liam Og O hAnnaidh cannot continue, a court has ruled.

The Kneecap band member, who performs under the name Mo Chara, appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on a single terror charge.

Giving his ruling, the judge said: "Proceedings against the defendant were instituted unlawfully and are null."

The 27-year-old had been accused of displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah at a gig in London in November last year.

He had been on unconditional bail since his first court appearance in June.

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Following his ruling, the judge told the Irish rapper: "Mr O hAnnaidh, you are free to go," which was met by cheers in the public gallery and applause.

The court was then told: "You can do your celebrating outside, but the court now has other business to attend to".

Both of O hAnnaidh's parents were in court to support him.

At the start of the hearing, O hAnnaidh stood to confirm his name, date of birth and current address, speaking in Irish with his words translated by an interpreter. The judge then summarised his judgement for the court.

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