The Independent retracts claims that Andy Ngo associated with Nazis and supported Capitol riot

In the original article, Winston Marshall, the former lead guitarist and banjo player for the band wrote to Ngo on Twitter a congratulatory post on his new book Unmasked: Inside Antifa's Radical Plan to Destroy Democracy.

"Finally had the time to read your important book," the now deleted tweet read. "You're a brave man."

The Independent alleged Ngo had former associations with the new-fascist white nationalist organizations Patriot Prayer and Proud Boys. Wording had now been changed to replace "past associations" with "coverage of."

"Update (1/4/21): Following publication of this article, The Independent was contacted by representatives of Andy Ngo who say that he denies supporting Patriot Prayer or Proud Boys. They also say that Mr Ngo did not overhear, and did not smile in response to overhearing, plans by others to commit any crime. In light of what has been advised, we have removed 'past associations with' [neo-fascist white nationalist organisations] from the article and have replaced it with 'coverage of” [neo-fascist white nationalist organisations]. Further, we accept that the original version of the article contained a significant inaccuracy. Specifically, it was alleged that Mr Ngo described the 6 January riots in Capitol Hill as a 'peaceful and celebratory gathering.' We accept this allegation is false and reference to it has been removed from the article," the full update note reads.

On Twitter, Ngo wrote that it shouldn't be just those that can afford the battle that are able to attack media outlets that have lied about yourself.

"Been lied about in the press? It’ll cost you thousands in legal fees to get the record corrected," Ngo tweeted. "This shouldn’t be a privilege for only those who can afford it."