AC/DC says new album, tour will go on after drummer Phil Rudd’s arrest

Following reports of its drummer’s arrest in New Zealand on charges of arranging two killings, the band AC/DC said Phil Rudd’s arrest would not affect the release of its upcoming album or tour.

“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,” the statement said.

According to the Associated Press, Rudd appeared briefly at the Tauranga District Court in New Zealand on Thursday and was charged with attempting to procure murder. The charge carries a maximum prison term of 10 years.

Attempts to reach Rudd’s lawyer and publicist for comment were not immediately successful.

Rudd was released on bail and ordered not to have any contact with anyone involved in the alleged plot. He was also charged with threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamine and marijuana. He has not entered a plea.

The Bay of Plenty Times newspaper reported that the Australian-born Rudd was accused of trying to hire a hit man to kill two people. Police raided Rudd’s home Thursday morning, according to the paper, and held him in custody until his court appearance.

AC/DC is due to release the “Rock or Bust” album next month. Previous albums include “Highway to Hell,” “Back in Black,” and “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap.”

Rudd and the other members of AC/DC were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.