Massive Attack have described the incident as a “surreal experience,” recounting that their entire touring crew were detained and interrogated by Singaporean authorities following their Star Theatre concert on 29 July, and noting they have since been barred from returning to the country over the display of the Palestinian flag.
In a thorough statement, the Teardrop stars said they were taken aback and disappointed to be held by police after the performance, alleging that members of the group were separated, questioned, subjected to searches of hotel rooms, and that their passports were temporarily seized.
The ensemble noted that sizable portions of the crowd spontaneously chanted “Free Palestine” on two occasions — before their set began and at the show’s conclusion. They characterized these shouts as natural, adding that attendees were presumably aware but undeterred that such expressions might violate Singapore’s censorship rules.
Massive Attack maintained that they did not anticipate that simply displaying the flag of a nation recognised by 157 countries would breach any regulation.
Looking back at the fallout, the duo said they were proud of the moment shared with fans who clearly felt a moral obligation to express solidarity with the people of Palestine.
They argued that global inaction was pushing ordinary people toward personal risk, describing the episode as surreal and a reminder of the importance of defending universal human rights and freedom of expression.
They also pointed to developments in the UK, arguing that peaceful protesters have been arrested under terrorism legislation for bearing handwritten anti-genocide signs.
The group ended their statement by thanking Singaporeans for their support and urging the government to ratify the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, asserting that citizens should be able to express their conscience “without fear of state prosecution.”
Singapore’s police and media regulator issued their own update on Saturday (01.08.26), confirming that Robert “3D” Del Naja and Grant “Daddy G” Marshall were investigated for “actions of support for a political cause and unfurling of a foreign flag.” After consulting the attorney general’s chambers, authorities issued “stern warnings” for alleged breaches of the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act and the Public Order Act.
Officials further stated that both individuals are now barred from returning to Singapore, and future show applications “would not be approved.” Police emphasized they take a serious view of acts that could undermine racial and religious harmony in Singapore.
Del Naja had previously been arrested in London in April during a protest opposing the UK’s ban on Palestine Action.
