Met Police close probe into guillotine t-shirt image shared online

The Metropolitan Police have closed their investigation into the sharing of an image on social media that depicted a man wearing a t-shirt featuring a guillotine and accompanying text. The image was part of an Instagram post shared on 27 July 2026, which prompted multiple reports to the force.

After reviewing the case, officers determined that the sharing of the image was unlikely to constitute a criminal offence. The Met considered offences under telecommunications, public order and incitement laws but found the threshold for prosecution was not met.

Post shared by 130 accounts

The image in question was the 18th in a sequence of 20 posted on Instagram. The individual named in the reports stated publicly that they had not seen the specific image before accepting the collaboration. The post was removed once the issue was raised.

By the time the post was taken down, it had been shared by approximately 130 accounts. The Met noted that the image had also been circulated on other social media platforms. Police concluded that investigating all 130 accounts would be disproportionate, given the lack of evidence suggesting a criminal offence.

Crime report transferred to Avon and Somerset

While the Met will take no further action regarding the sharing of the image, a separate crime report has been recorded concerning the wearing of the t-shirt. The incident occurred in Bristol, so the case has been transferred to Avon and Somerset Police for consideration.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said the force understands public concern over the image, particularly in light of rising threats against politicians. They emphasised that while no offence was identified in this instance, the Met remains committed to the security of public figures and will continue to provide support where necessary.

What happens next

Avon and Somerset Police will now review the crime report relating to the wearing of the t-shirt. It is unclear what action, if any, they will take. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed no further steps will be taken regarding the sharing of the image online.