Singapore police investigates British band Massive Attack over Palestinian flag at concert

Singapore authorities have opened an investigation into British band Massive Attack after members displayed a Palestinian flag during their concert on Wednesday, at The Star Performing Arts Centre.

Police confirmed on Friday that reports had been lodged and investigations were ongoing following the incident.

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) is also examining a possible breach of licence conditions for the event.

British trip-hop band Massive Attack is under investigation by Singapore police and media authorities after displaying a Palestinian flag during their July 29 concert at The Star Theatre. Video footage shows two band members holding the flag on stage as the audience cheered, with… pic.twitter.com/gEDCBUUSOl

— PALESTINE ONLINE 🇵🇸 (@OnlinePalEng) July 31, 2026

Videos circulating widely on social media show band members Robert “3D” Del Naja and Grant “Daddy G” Marshall holding up a Palestinian flag near the end of the performance as the audience cheered.

A concertgoer told CNA that the band shouted “Free Palestine,” prompting many in the crowd to join the chant.

Singapore law prohibits the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit or exemption under the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act.

Offenders face a fine of up to S$500, up to six months in jail, or both.

The Palestinian flag is particularly sensitive in the city-state due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Singapore’s multi-racial, multi-religious society, which includes a significant Muslim population.

In a 2023 advisory, the Ministry of Home Affairs stated: “The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is an emotive issue. We would like to advise against the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the conflict, given the heightened sensitivities.”

The ministry added: “The peace and harmony between different races and religions in Singapore should not be taken for granted, and we must not let events happening externally affect this peace and harmony we have in Singapore.”

Massive Attack, formed in Bristol in 1988 and now consisting primarily of Del Naja and Marshall, is known for its political activism.

During the Singapore show, projections and messaging also addressed other conflicts, including those in Ukraine, Sudan, and involving Iran, as well as criticism of surveillance technology firm Palantir.

Concert promoter Lushington Entertainments said it was aware of the reports and would “fully co-operate with the relevant authorities as required.”