Massive Attack investigated for alleged pro-Palestine display during Singapore show

Both of the band's current members are alleged to have displayed a Palestine flag at the end of their set at the The Star Theatre on Wednesday

Authorities in Singapore have reportedly launched an investigation into Massive Attack after the band allegedly displayed a Palestinian flag during a show in the city-state.

The incident is believed to have taken place on Wednesday (July 29), when Massive Attack - AKA Robert Del Naja and Daddy G - performed at The Star Theatre as part of their 'xLive' world tour.

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According to Reuters, both current members of Massive Attack are alleged to have ended their set by holding up a Palestine flag and beginning a chant of "free Palestine". Singapore has strict limitations on political expression and public speech in efforts to maintain "social harmony". 

In response to a query from Channel News Asia, Singapore Police confirmed that "reports had been lodged" of the incident and it was conducting investigations. It also confirmed that the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) launched a probe into a possible "breach of licence conditions” for the venue. 

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Singapore has a ban on the display of foreign flags and political symbols without written permission from authorities. According to BBC News, penalties for violating this ban can range from a fine of around 500 SGD (£290) to six months imprisonment.

Mixmag has contacted representatives for Massive Attack for comment. 

Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, get in touch with her here.

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