The UK band Massive Attack has stated it was "surprised and disappointed" by its treatment in Singapore after displaying pro-Palestine sentiments during a July 29 performance.
In a statement posted to Instagram on Sunday, the band members reported being "detained by the police, isolated and separately questioned." Some were subjected to searches of their hotel rooms and had their passports temporarily confiscated.
During the concert, the band's two members held up a Palestinian flag and led the audience in chanting "free Palestine." Singapore subsequently announced an indefinite ban on Massive Attack from returning to the country.
A police spokesperson confirmed to the BBC that the two band members would be prohibited from re-entering Singapore and performing there. Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshall received "stern warnings" for alleged violations of laws restricting the public display of foreign flags and regulating political expressions at public events.
Massive Attack noted that "large sections of the auditorium organically led chants of 'Free Palestine,' presumably aware but undeterred that this spontaneous expression alone could violate their government's censorship laws." The band described the experience as "surreal" and stated it did not anticipate that displaying the flag of a state recognized by 157 countries would be against the law.
The group affirmed its pride in making the "impromptu expression" with fans, who "clearly felt a moral imperative to show solidarity with the people of Palestine."
Massive Attack is known for its public stances on various issues, including the conflict in Gaza. Earlier this year, Del Naja was arrested in London on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action during a protest where he held a sign reading "I Oppose Genocide, I Support Palestine Action."
Singapore has maintained a firm position on public statements related to the Israel-Gaza war, citing the need to preserve racial and social harmony in the multicultural nation. In 2023, the home affairs ministry advised against "the public display and wearing of articles" connected to the conflict, including foreign national emblems.
Massive Attack is currently on a world tour, with upcoming performances scheduled in Australia following the conclusion of its Asian leg.