BBC under fire after grime star Krept was stabbed in BBC Radio 1xtra Live gig brawl in Birmingham
THE BBC have come under fire after a rapper was slashed by a knifeman backstage at a music event in Birmingham.
London born star Krept, real name Casyo Johnson, 29, was backstage when he was assaulted after being caught up in a brawl at Radio 1 Extra Live.
The stabbed rapper was Krept, one part of grime duo Krept and Konan, shortly after they had performed at the event – forcing it to be cancelled.
Furious industry insiders have since demanded answers about how the man got a blade through strict, airport-style security at the Arena Birmingham.
A source said: “This was a serious incident and it has shocked everyone. Krept did not know the individual and was simply unlucky to be caught up in it.
“What’s worrying is how someone with a knife managed to gain access to the VIP areas where the artists are and backstage in general.
“It’s a miracle it wasn’t worse. The BBC need to provide answers and give assurances this won’t happen again.
"They don’t control security but they’re the organisers. They risk-assessed it and it happened on their watch.”
The BBC confirmed they are investigating the incident and are working with the security team at Birmingham arena and West Midlands police in a bid to find out what happened.
Punters going into the venue were made to walk through airport style security scanners and had their bags searched.
'HAPPENED ON THEIR WATCH'
It’s unknown whether the individual had bought a ticket for the event or if they were a guest of one of the performers.
Five-time Mobo award-winner Krept spoke out today following the incident on Saturday night and confirmed he was fine.
He tweeted: “My people thanks for the messages I’m good, I’ll be back in no time. God was with me trust me. Can’t keep a good man down.”
He was treated at the scene by an ambulance crew but did not need hospital treatment.
In a statement, the BBC said: “Following an isolated serious incident, we have had to stop 1Xtra Live in Birmingham. We are co-operating fully with the police to establish what has happened .
“We’re sorry to everyone who attended 1Xtra Live in Birmingham for the early finish, however the health and safety of everyone involved is always our top priority.
“We are upset and saddened that something like this should happen to a guest at one of our events and we remain in close contact and continue to offer our full support.”
West Midlands Police are continuing to investigate the incident and have asked potential witnesses to come forward.
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The event at the 15,000 capacity Arena Birmingham had sold out.
On the night, acts including chart topper AJ Tracey and rapper Ms Banks, who performed at the Brits with Little Mix, were on the bill.
American rapper French Montana was also due to perform.
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