2 Massive Attack members given warnings, banned from re-entering S'pore

SINGAPORE – Two members of British band Massive Attack have been issued warnings by the police and banned from re-entering Singapore, after they displayed a Palestinian flag at their concert on July 29.

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will also not grant any future application for performances by the band in Singapore in view of the entry ban, according to a joint statement by the police and IMDA late on July 31.

The full joint statement by the police and IMDA are as follows:

In response to media queries, the Police have investigated two band members of Massive Attack for their actions of support for a political cause and unfurling of a foreign flag during the band’s concert on 29 July 2026. Upon completion of investigations and after careful consideration of the facts and circumstances of the case, the Police, in consultation with the Attorney-General’s Chambers, administered stern warnings to both men for the offences of Section (3) of the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act 1949 and Section 16 of the Public Order Act. Both men will also be banned from re-entering Singapore.

IMDA is investigating the possible breach of a number of licence conditions and will take necessary action upon conclusion of investigations. This includes a condition that stipulates that there shall be no display of flags in support of any causes. Notwithstanding the event organiser’s prior acknowledgement of the licence conditions, during the performance, two band members held a foreign flag on stage, and one of them also shouted “Free Palestine”.

IMDA will also not grant any future application for performances by the band in Singapore in view of the entry ban.

The Police take a serious view of acts which could potentially harm the racial and religious harmony in Singapore and urge the public, including foreigners, to refrain from importing foreign politics as this can undermine our social cohesion and the rule of law. The peace and harmony between different races and religions in Singapore should not be taken for granted, and we must not let external events affect our society.