AC/DC Drummer Charged With Attempting To Procure A Murder

AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd is reportedly set to face court in New Zealand today after being charged with attempting to procure a murder.

Fairfax have reported via their New Zealand website Stuff.co.nz, the musician's Tauranga home was searched this morning, with charges of possession of methamphetamines and cannabis also laid, along with the murder attempt threat.

The news comes after recent rumours emerged over whether the drummer would remain in AC/DC after a group photo of the band was posted without him. Rudd recently released his solo record Head Job.

The iconic Aussie outfit recently confirmed guitarist Malcolm Young had retired from the band due to his battle with dementia.

AC/DC will launch their new album Rock Or Bust in the NSW Riverina town of The Rock on Sunday 23 November, just days before its official release.

UPDATE: Phil Rudd has reportedly been released on bail after appearing in court earlier today.

New Zealand Fairfax website Stuff.co.nz has reported that the drummer entered a no plea to the charges and will appear again in court in three weeks time.

He is alleged to have tried to hire a hitman to kill two men.