AC/DC confirm drummer murder plot charge won't alter upcoming plans

AC/DC have commented on their drummer's recent arrest for allegedly conspiring to murder two people.

As previously reported, 60-year-old Phil Rudd appeared in court in New Zealand on Thursday (November 6) on a charge of procuring murder.

He was also charged with threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamine and cannabis.

AC/DC are due to release new album 'Rock or Bust' on December 2 as well as tour the world next year.

However, the group confirmed that Rudd's charge won't change their upcoming plans.

They said in a statement: "We've only become aware of Phil's arrest as the news was breaking. We have no further comment. Phil’s absence will not affect the release of our new album 'Rock or Bust' and upcoming tour next year."

Rudd, who left the rockers in 1983 before rejoining in 1994, is alleged to have attempted to hire an individual to kill two people between September 25 and September 26.

He has been bailed November 27 and isn't allowed to leave his city of Tauranga.

Questions were raised recently when the group uploaded a new promotional photo online that showed the group without Rudd.

AC/DC, however, said that whilst he didn't appear in the shoot, the drummer was still an active member of the group.

Listen to AC/DC's new single 'Play Ball' below: