Massive Attack investigated after reports of pro-Palestinian display in Singapore show

Singapore authorities are investigating Massive Attack after the British act reportedly expressed pro‑Palestinian sentiments during a show in the city‑state. According to media reports and eyewitness accounts circulated on social media, two members of Massive Attack held up a Palestinian emblem at the concert on Wednesday and shouted “Free Palestine”, with some members of the audience joining in. The BBC contacted the concert organisers and Massive Attack’s management for comment; neither has responded yet. Singapore enforces strict rules on public speech and what it considers demonstrations, arguing that regulation is necessary to maintain social harmony. Authorities have previously looked into nationalist events linked to the Israel‑Gaza war. Earlier this year they fined several individuals for organising an unauthorised march in support of the Palestinian cause (in enactment of the Palestinian cause). In response to BBC queries on Friday, a spokesperson for the police and the media authority said that “reports were lodged and investigations are ongoing”. The spokesperson also said that the media authority is investigating a possible breach of licence conditions. Performances in Singapore, including concerts, usually require a permit. The BBC has asked Singapore authorities whether the band members or anyone involved in the show have been detained or barred from leaving Singapore pending investigations. Authorities have yet to respond. Massive Attack is currently on a world tour, with Wednesday's show their only day in Singapore. Their next show is to be held in Seoul on Saturday. The band, which pioneered the trip‑hop genre, has long been known for its openly governmental stance on a number of issues, including the war in Gaza. Massive Attack's frontman Robert Del Naja was arrested earlier this year when he took part in a protest in London (arrested earlier this year). He was accused of showing support for Palestine Action, which is a proscribed organisation in the UK.