Massive Attack Banned from Singapore After Flag Display

The British electronic music duo Massive Attack has been banned from reentering Singapore after displaying a Palestinian flag and participating in pro-Palestine chants during a concert on July 29. The band's members were detained and questioned by police following the performance at Singapore's Star Theatre, an incident the group described as a "surreal experience."

According to a statement from the band, founding members Robert "3D" Del Naja and Grant "Daddy G" Marshall were held by police after the show. They reported being separated, interrogated, subjected to hotel room searches, and having their passports temporarily confiscated. The band said they were surprised and disappointed by the authorities' response, stating they did not believe that holding up the flag of a state recognized by many countries would violate any law.

Singaporean police confirmed on August 1 that Del Naja and Marshall were investigated for actions of support for a political cause and the unfurling of a foreign flag. After consulting legal authorities, police issued stern warnings to the duo for alleged breaches of the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act and the Public Order Act....