SINGAPORE, Aug. 3 — British trip-hop band Massive Attack has expressed surprise and disappointment after Singaporean authorities indefinitely banned the group from returning to the country following a pro-Palestine display during a recent concert.
In a statement posted on Instagram on Sunday, the band said its two members, Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshall, were detained by police, questioned separately, and temporarily had their passports confiscated after their July 29 performance in Singapore. The group also said some members were subjected to hotel room searches.
During the concert, Del Naja and Marshall held up a Palestinian flag and joined audience members in chanting “Free Palestine.” Singaporean authorities later issued stern warnings, citing laws that restrict the public display of foreign flags and regulate political expression at public events.
Massive Attack described the incident as a “surreal experience,” saying it had not expected that displaying the flag of “a sovereign state recognised by 157 countries” would violate local laws. The band added it was proud to have shown solidarity with Palestinian supporters in the audience.
Singapore police confirmed that the two musicians have been permanently barred from re-entering the country or performing there again.
The city-state has maintained strict controls on public demonstrations and political speech, arguing that such measures are necessary to preserve racial and religious harmony. Authorities have also previously warned against public displays related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Known for its outspoken political activism, Massive Attack has frequently voiced support for Palestine and criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. The band is continuing its world tour, with performances scheduled in Australia following the conclusion of its Asia tour.
