UK police arrest man over alleged bomb hoax at Peter Kay show

A Peter Kay performance at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena was abruptly cut short and the crowd evacuated on Thursday night after what was reported as a potential suspicious bag, though British police later said their searches uncovered nothing опасious.

West Midlands Police said a 19-year-old man arrested on suspicion of a bomb hoax offence remains in custody.

The comedian’s set was stopped after the discovery of what was described as a “potential suspicious bag”.

In a statement issued this morning, police said: “Following searches of the Utilita Arena last night, no items of a suspicious nature were found.

“We’re grateful to everyone for their co-operation and understanding. As always our priority is the safety of the public.”

People in the arena said the interruption came around 45 minutes into the show, when two staff members walked onto the stage, spoke quietly to Kay, and led him away.

Steve Aspinall, who had attended the gig with his wife, told the Press Association: “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.”

He said audience members were then instructed to identify security staff and pay attention to any announcements.

“To be honest, I thought it was part of the show at first,” said Mr Aspinall, who lives in Bideford, Devon.

“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.”

A spokesperson for the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) 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 our customers and colleagues is our highest priority. We can confirm everyone was safely evacuated and that the venue is secure.

“Ticket holders will be contacted directly in due course.”