Kneecap Rapper Mo Chara Released on Bail After Terror Charge Over Hezbollah Flag at London Gig

LONDON — Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known as Mo Chara of the Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap, has been released on unconditional bail following a court appearance in London on a terrorism-related charge.

The 27-year-old artist is accused of displaying a flag associated with the proscribed group Hezbollah during a recent Kneecap performance in the city. He was formally charged under the anglicized name Liam O’Hanna and appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, flanked by bandmates Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin) and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh).

Packed Courtroom, Strong Support

The courtroom was filled to capacity, with extra chairs brought in to accommodate journalists. Among those in attendance were representatives from Irish language advocacy groups and Sinn Féin MPs John Finucane and Paul Maskey.

Outside, the show of solidarity was impossible to miss. Supporters applauded as the group exited the courthouse, while others waved Palestinian flags and banners emblazoned with the messages “Free Speech, Free Palestine” and “Free Mo Chara.” The band members themselves arrived wearing T-shirts reading “Free Mo Chara.”

One van that passed by bore a striking slogan: “More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara” — a defiant twist on a notorious discriminatory phrase from 1950s Britain, now reimagined in support of the rapper.

Kneecap later claimed responsibility for covering parts of London with supportive messages ahead of the hearing.

What’s Next in the Case?

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring set the next court date for August 20, telling Ó hAnnaidh he must attend. He also noted that court officials had attempted to secure an Irish language interpreter for the hearing, but “we couldn’t find one.”

Kneecap has issued a public denial of the charge via social media, stating: “We deny this ‘offence’ and will vehemently defend ourselves.”

Who Are Kneecap?

Formed in 2017, Kneecap is a Belfast-based rap trio known for mixing Irish language with politically charged lyrics, provocative imagery, and a rebellious spirit. The members — Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí — have made headlines for their controversial performances, outspoken views, and unapologetically anti-establishment stance.

They’ve also made waves in the entertainment world: a semi-fictionalized film based on the group, starring Michael Fassbender, won a BAFTA in February 2025.

Controversy is nothing new to the group. At Coachella in April, they made headlines for highlighting the war in Gaza during their set. And back in November 2024, they successfully challenged a UK government decision by then-minister Kemi Badenoch to strip them of an arts grant.