Top News

A teenager accused of sparking a bomb scare at a Peter Kay show has been removed from court after repeatedly interrupting proceedings.

Omar Majed, 19, appeared at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Monday following the incident, which saw thousands of fans evacuated from the Utilita Arena during the comedian's performance on Friday night.

The hearing lasted just 11 minutes before Majed was ordered down to the cells after speaking out despite warnings from District Judge Michelle Smith, who was presiding via video link.

At one point, he shouted that proposed bail conditions were "not acceptable", prompting his removal from the courtroom.

The court heard that the disruption began when Majed allegedly "barged" his way into the arena without a ticket. Prosecutor Ros Buttler said he then indicated to a police officer and others that a bomb may have been left at the venue.

She told the court the alleged hoax had "serious repercussions", with around 13,000 people attending the show at the time.

Majed, of Saltley, Birmingham, is charged with communicating false information that a bomb was present in the arena. He did not enter a plea and was remanded in custody.

District Judge Smith refused bail and ruled the case should be heard at a higher court. She said: "Based on everything I have read and have heard I am satisfied that the case should be dealt with in the Crown Court." The case is due to be heard at Birmingham Crown Court in June.

The incident forced the evacuation of the arena less than an hour into Peter Kay's show, which was part of his Better Late Than Never tour, with proceeds set to be donated to 12 cancer charities.

West Midlands Police confirmed a report had been made about a "suspicious bag" in the area. Following searches, officers said "nothing suspicious was found".

In a statement, the force added: "We're grateful to everyone for their co-operation and understanding. As always our priority is the safety of the public."

Audience members described confusion as the situation unfolded, with many initially unsure whether it was part of the performance.

According to the Mirror, one attendee who had travelled from Devon for the show, said: "Two guys came on, one with a mic and headphones, one guy whispered to Peter Kay and then he and Peter Kay shot off down the side.

"To be honest, I thought it was part of the show at first. It was a strange atmosphere, eerie, just confused really (about) what was happening. But it was alright and everyone was calm and left quite quickly with no panic."

Another comedy fan shared that the evacuation was "calm and swift", adding: "No messing, it was just all out."

The venue also confirmed the decision to clear the arena had been taken as a precaution. A spokesperson said: "Utilita Arena Birmingham has been evacuated as a precaution on the advice of West Midlands Police after a potential suspicious bag was found nearby.

"The safety and security of customers and our colleagues is our highest priority."