Rock group AC/DC says it will go on tour next year with or without drummer Phil Rudd, who was arraigned Thursday afternoon in New Zealand on suspicion of hatching a murder-for-hire plot to kill two men.

Rudd was arrested by New Zealand authorities at his Tauranga home, accused of trying to put together the murder plot on September 25 and 26.  

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The 60-year-old Australian native also was charged in New Zealand court with suspicion of threatening to kill, possession of meth and possession of marijuana, according to Kim Perks, Bay of Plenty Police District spokesman.

The names of the men he allegedly sought killed and the potential hitman haven't been released by authorities. Rudd, meanwhile, posted bond and was released. He was supposed to return to court on November 27. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

"We've only become aware of Phil's arrest as the news was breaking," the band said in a statement. "We have no further comment."

AC/DC want on to say, "Phil's absence will not affect the release of our new album Rock or Bust and upcoming tour next year." The band previously announced that its "Rock or Bust" album would drop December 2.

Rudd has been a longtime member of AC/DC, but also has had a somewhat stormy relationship within the group. He moved to a waterfront Tauranga home in 1983 after being fired from the group. He rejoined the group after a few years and was inducted, along with other bandmates, into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.

TagsPhil Rudd, AC/DC, metal music, crime, murder for hire, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, rock or bust, Music, heavy metal music