Bomb hoax suspect accused of starting panic at Peter Kay gig removed from court after stripping off

An alleged bomb hoax plotter accused of starting panic at a Peter Kay gig was removed from a court hearing after taking off his trousers.

Omar Majed, 19, appeared at Birmingham Crown Court on Tuesday accused of communicating false information to police contrary to the Criminal Law Act.

He allegedly barged into the venue without a ticket and said a bomb was planted inside.

About 13,000 fans were forced to evacuate from Birmingham's Utilita Arena, 45 minutes into the comedian's performance.

Police swept the arena after reports of the potentially suspicious bag on Friday, May 1.

Mr Majed's hearing was cut short when he started to take off his prison-issued grey tracksuit bottoms.

He appeared in court via video-link from HMP Brinsford.

Prison officers removed him from the courtroom as Judge Andrew Smith was attempting to address him.

He was asked to not give a plea during the hearing due to the need for psychiatric reports.

A further case management hearing for Mr Majed was set for July 27, with a provisional trial date of November 3.

He was removed from a previous court hearing for repeatedly talking.

The gig was part of Mr Kay's Better Late Than Never tour, which will see all its proceeds donated to cancer charities.

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West Midlands Police confirmed nothing dangerous was discovered following searches of the venue.

The force added: "We're grateful to everyone for their co-operation and understanding.

"As always our priority is the safety of the public."

Mr Kay's performance was rescheduled to July 25, with fans offered a refund if they are unable to attend.

The 12 charities the tour supports includes the like of Children With Cancer UK, Teenage Cancer Trust, and Kidney Cancer UK.

A statement from the comedian's promoters said: "We are pleased to share that following the disruption to Peter Kay's performance on Friday 1st May, we have arranged a rescheduled date for all ticket holders on Saturday 25th July 2026.

"The safety of the audience, artist and staff is always the highest priority, and we apologise sincerely for the inconvenience caused by the precautionary evacuation by venue management on the advice of West Midlands Police.

"All tickets will remain valid for the new date. Customers who are unable to attend will be entitled to a refund."