Dutch Eurovision entry disqualified amidst police investigation into intimidation claims

Dutch Eurovision contestant Joost Klein has been disqualified from the Eurovision Song Contest amidst a police investigation into claims that he had intimidated a female crew member backstage.

The performer was sent home after a female member of the production crew filed a police report, claiming that he had threatened her.

In a statement on Saturday, the organisers of the contest explained that the Swedish police were investigating after receiving a complaint from a female member of the production crew, adding that ""while the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest."

In a social media post reacting to the news, Dutch broadcasting company Avrtotros said it was “shocked” by Klein's disqualification, a move which it described as "disproportionate.”

Holland’s Eurovision entry was one of the favourites to win the competition this year.

In a statement on Saturday, the European Broadcast Union said that the complaint had been made by a female member of the production crew after an incident following Klein’s performance in Thursday night’s Semi Final.

"We would like to make it clear that, contrary to some media reports and social media speculation, this incident did not involve any other performer or delegation member."

"We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour at our event and are committed to providing a safe and secure working environment for all staff at the Contest. In light of this, Joost Klein’s behaviour towards a team member is deemed in breach of Contest rules."

37 countries participated in the Eurovision Song Contest this year, Malta’s entry “Loop,” performed by Sarah Bonnici did not qualify for the finals.