Singapore police detained and questioned members of British band Massive Attack after a Palestinian flag was displayed during their concert in the city-state, according to a report from malaysiakini.com published Monday.
The news outlet, citing the band's account, said the musicians were held and interrogated over the flag's appearance at the performance. The report did not specify the exact date of the concert or the duration of the detention.
The incident has drawn responses from multiple international outlets. BBC News reported that Massive Attack issued a statement after Singapore banned the band over the Palestine display. The New York Times also covered the ban, noting it was imposed specifically for showing the flag.
The Guardian described the band's experience as "surreal," a characterization the group themselves used when speaking about the ordeal. The Independent similarly quoted the band reflecting on the "surreal" nature of being detained in Singapore over the flag.
Singapore has strict laws governing public assemblies and political expression, and foreign acts performing in the country are generally expected to avoid sensitive political symbols. The flag display appears to have crossed that line, leading to both the police questioning and the subsequent ban.
Massive Attack, known for politically charged music and activism, has not indicated whether they plan to challenge the ban or reschedule any future appearances in Singapore. The band's statement, as summarized by the outlets, focused on their surprise at the detention rather than any apology or concession.
What to watch next is whether the ban prompts other touring artists to reconsider how they handle political symbols at Singapore shows, and whether the band pursues any legal or diplomatic recourse.
