Palestine flag shown on stage: Singapore bans Massive Attack musicians from re-entering

They were “surprised and disappointed that our entire band was detained by the police, separated from each other and questioned individually,” Massive Attack said on Instagram. Some members also had to endure searches of their hotel rooms and a temporary confiscation of their passports.

What had happened?

The band had last Wednesday at the Star Theater in Singapore displayed a Palestinian flag during their performance. A musician is also said to have shouted “Free Palestine”. The police then launched an investigation against musicians Robert “3D” Del Naja and Grant “Daddy G” Marshall.

According to authorities, both received one “Serious warning” over possible violations of foreign symbol control and public order laws. “Both men will also be banned from re-entering Singapore,” said a statement from the Singapore Police Force.

Strict laws in Singapore

This is in the Southeast Asian city-state Public display of foreign flags, symbols or banners without permission is prohibited. The police justified their actions not only with the flag, but also with the fact that it was in support of a political cause.

“The police take very seriously actions that could threaten ethnic and religious peace in Singapore and appeal to the public, especially foreigners, to refrain from importing foreign politics,” the security forces said. This could undermine social cohesion and the rule of law in the country.

Band is known for supporting Palestine

The musicians from Massive Attack said they were proud to have shown solidarity with the Palestinians together with fans in Singapore. “We could not have imagined that simply holding up a flag of a sovereign state recognized by 157 countries could constitute a violation of the law,” emphasized the band, referring to Palestine. Massive Attack have long been known for their support of Palestinians and criticism of Israel.