British electronic music group Massive Attack reported they were detained and questioned by Singapore police following their concert performance on July 29. Band members Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshall held up a Palestinian flag and called for Palestinian freedom during the show, actions that prompted intervention by authorities in the city-state.
Singaporean police subsequently announced an indefinite performance ban for the group, with officials stating the two musicians would not be permitted to re-enter the country. Authorities said Del Naja and Marshall received stern warnings for alleged violations of regulations restricting public display of foreign flags and governing political expression at public events. According to a police spokeswoman, the band members experienced hotel room searches and temporary passport confiscation during their detention.
Massive Attack responded through social media, expressing surprise and disappointment at their treatment. The band noted that large sections of the concert audience joined in chanting “Free Palestine” both before and after their performance, which they characterized as an organic, spontaneous expression by attendees. The group stated they did not anticipate that holding the flag of a sovereign state recognized by 157 countries would violate local laws.
Singapore maintains strict regulations on public speech and assembly, with government officials citing the need to preserve racial and social harmony in the multicultural nation. The home affairs ministry issued guidance in 2023 discouraging public displays related to the Israel-Gaza conflict, including foreign national emblems. Earlier in the current year, authorities fined individuals for organizing an unauthorized demonstration supporting the Palestinian cause.
Massive Attack, known for their political activism on various issues including the Gaza conflict, are continuing their world tour with upcoming performances in Australia following their Asia leg. Del Naja was arrested earlier this year in London on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action, an organization designated as proscribed.
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