World News

London police drop investigation into Bobby Vylan over chant directed at IDF

The Metropolitan Police consulted prosecutors before deciding not to pursue charges against the musician over comments made at a March rally.

Updated Aug 27, 2026 · 13:21 UTC1 reports

The short version

The Metropolitan Police announced that punk rapper Bobby Vylan will face no further legal action regarding chants directed at the Israel Defense Forces during a March demonstration.
Police made the decision after seeking advice from the Crown Prosecution Service regarding the performer's statements at an Al Quds Day rally.
The outcome follows a similar decision in December by Avon and Somerset Police concerning chants made during the band's 2025 Glastonbury Festival set.

The Metropolitan Police concluded an investigation into punk rapper Bobby Vylan, real name Pascal Robinson-Foster, over chants of 'death, death to the IDF' during a March 15 demonstration in London.[BBC News]
Police stated they closed the case after receiving early investigative advice from the Crown Prosecution Service.[BBC News]
A police spokesperson noted the force acknowledged concerns caused by the language, specifically within London's Jewish communities.[BBC News]
Avon and Somerset Police previously ended an investigation in December with no further action regarding similar chants made by Robinson-Foster during the June 2025 Glastonbury Festival.[BBC News]