Rapper Twista Cheese Convicted for Posting ‘Threatening’ Video Targeting Tommy Robinson

Twista Cheese Found Guilty

Twista Cheese has been found guilty of publishing a “threatening” video aimed at Tommy Robinson.

The Birmingham rapper, whose real name is Omar Abdirizak, previously pleaded not guilty to sending a grossly offensive or threatening message via a public communications network.

The charge stemmed from a video of the rapper threatening a British anti-Islam and far-right activist by brandishing a weapon and shouting “pow, pow, pow.”

Trial Outcome and Reactions

Now, following a trial today (January 8) at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court, Abdirizak has been found guilty. Prosecutor Tim Talbot-Webb stated that the references to guns and artillery in the video shared by the rapper meant it had crossed the line into criminality.

THREATS TO KILL ME BECAUSE OF MEDIA AND POLITICIAN LIES

This Somali pirate known as Twista Cheese threatened me because he believes, “I already told you that we are going to attack the mosques.”

He simply repeats the LIE that @PiersUncensored said during… pic.twitter.com/EtoReCNHsd

— Tommy Robinson 🇬🇧 (@TRobinsonNewEra) August 10, 2024

Robinson posted the video on his official X/Twitter page last August, claiming that the rapper had threatened to kill him. Since being uploaded, the post has garnered over 2 million views.

In the clip, Abdirizak states he has a message for the jailed former English Defense League leader, claiming that he has “Muslims on every corner” and adds: “Look at the artillery we have.”

According to Independent, the rapper denied directly threatening Robinson, claiming the video was a promotional tool for his music on YouTube and TikTok, aimed at “putting Tommy Robinson in his place” regarding last summer’s riots.

“I say if you come, self-defense,” he said. “Even when I say bam, bam, bam, it’s all entertainment.”

Concerns and Future Implications

However, Talbot-Webb pointed out that the video was released during a time of real rioting against mosques and other institutions. He emphasized, “By the mention of pirates and artillery… any member of the public who saw this could well have developed fears of serious violence.”

District Judge Wayne found Abdirizak guilty, stating: “Having heard the defendant’s evidence, I am satisfied that this was the intended message and not an attempt to promote his music.”

The rapper was granted bail for sentencing on February 12, as the court sought to explore “hidden disabilities” that might include mental health issues. Abdirizak will also face charges for possession of marijuana and a racially aggravated public order offence.

In related news, Elon Musk recently called for Robinson’s release. Last week, the tech billionaire tweeted, “Free Tommy Robinson!” referencing the far-right activist jailed for contempt of court.

Musk’s father, Errol, mentioned he believes there’s a “good chance” Robinson could become prime minister, citing historical examples like former South African President Nelson Mandela, who was imprisoned before taking office.