Man charged over bomb hoax after Peter Kay show evacuated | Peter Kay

A man has been charged with bomb hoaxing after comedian Peter Kay’s live show in Birmingham was stopped after a “potentially suspicious bag” was found around the venue.

West Midlands police said in a statement on Friday evening that the Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated and a 19-year-old man was taken into custody.

On Saturday police said: “A man has been charged in connection with events that led to the evacuation of Birmingham’s Utilita Arena last night.

“Omar Majed, 19, has been charged with miscommunication in relation to the bomb hoax,” a police spokesman said. “Majed, of Washwood Heath, Birmingham, has been remanded in custody to appear before a judge in Birmingham on May 4.

“Following the report that a suspicious bag was left in the area, the arena was ordered to be evacuated last night.

“Following searches, nothing suspicious was found and we are grateful to everyone for their cooperation and understanding,” the spokesman added. “As always, our priority is the public’s safety.”

Audience members reported that Kay was removed from the stage about 45 minutes into his performance and the crowd was asked to leave the theater without being told what had happened.

Steve Aspinall, who was at the demonstration with his wife, told the Press Association: “Two men came up; one with a microphone and a headset. One of the men whispered to Peter Kay and then he and Peter Kay darted off to the side.”

Spectators were told to call security guards and listen for announcements, he said.

“Honestly at first I thought it was part of the show,” Aspinall said.

Miranda Richardson, 52, a publican from Northampton, said: “It was so fast. Wait a minute. [Kay’s] “He’s on stage and the concert is great, then two people from the event team come right up to the stage and walk towards him, give him a quick heads up and he’s off.”

The arena said in a statement on Friday: “Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated as a precaution on the advice of West Midlands police after a potentially suspicious bag was found nearby.

“The safety and security of our customers and colleagues is our top priority. We can confirm that everyone has been evacuated safely and the venue is secure.”

The venue said ticket holders would be contacted.