Massive Attack banned from Singapore after Palestine flag display

British trip-hop group Massive Attack faced a ban from Singapore and police questioning after displaying a Palestinian flag during a July 29 concert at The Star Theatre. The band described the experience as "surreal," reporting that members were detained, isolated, and questioned separately, with some having their hotel rooms searched and passports temporarily confiscated.

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We did not imagine that merely holding up the flag of a sovereign state recognised by 157 countries would violate any law.

In a statement posted on Instagram, the group expressed surprise and disappointment at the authorities' reaction but remained proud of the gesture. They stated they did not anticipate that displaying the flag of a state recognized by 157 countries would violate any laws. Audience members also spontaneously chanted "Free Palestine" during the performance.

Singapore authorities confirmed that police investigated band members Robert “3D” Del Naja and Grant “Daddy G” Marshall for displaying the flag and allegedly supporting a political cause. Both musicians received "stern warnings" for alleged violations of the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act and the Public Order Act. They will be banned from re-entering Singapore, and future performance applications will be denied.

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We were detained by the police, isolated and separately questioned.

Police emphasized the seriousness of actions that could affect racial and religious harmony, urging both citizens and foreigners to refrain from bringing foreign political issues into Singapore's public spaces. Singapore maintains strict regulations on political expression and foreign symbols, citing the need to protect social cohesion in its multicultural society, especially amid international conflicts like the Israel-Gaza war.

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We are proud to have made this impromptu expression with our fans in Singapore.