Police launch probe into homophobic lyrics

LONDON, Aug. 17 (UPI) -- British police are investigating alleged homophobic lyrics in songs by at least four well known Jamaican dancehall singers.

The police and the Crown Prosecution Service are considering criminal charges against Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man and Buju Banton, whose lyrics include calls to kill gays, the Independent reported Tuesday.

Beenie Man, particularly, has infuriated gay rights activists who cite the 31-year-old singer's lyrics, such as "I'm dreaming of a new Jamaica, come to execute all the queers."

The CPS is challenged in its inquiry by deciding what constitutes freedom of speech and what is considered inciting people to commit violent crimes.

Peter Tatchell of OutRage! said his organization has complained to Beenie's record label, Virgin Records, and its parent, EMI.

"Free speech does not include the right to encourage the criminal act of murder. Beenie Man does more than express his disapproval of homosexuality. He calls for all homosexuals to be killed and incites his listeners to go out and murder gays and lesbians," Tatchell said.