Massive Attack Members Detained in Singapore After Pro-Palestine Flag Display

Members of British trip-hop band Massive Attack say they were detained and questioned by Singaporean police after displaying a Palestinian flag during their concert at the Star Theatre on July 29.

In a statement released on Monday, the band said sections of the audience chanted "Free Palestine" before and after the performance, prompting the group to unfurl the Palestinian flag on stage in what it described as an impromptu act of solidarity.

The band said they were surprised to be detained after the concert, with members reportedly questioned separately, some having their hotel rooms searched and passports temporarily confiscated.

Singaporean authorities said the display of a foreign national flag without a permit could undermine the country's racial and religious harmony. Police confirmed that two members of the group received stern warnings and were barred from re-entering Singapore.

Massive Attack, made up of Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshall, described the incident as a "surreal experience" and said it reinforced the importance of defending universal human rights and freedom of expression.

Singapore maintains strict regulations on the public display of foreign national symbols and says its policies are aimed at preserving social harmony in its multicultural society.

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