Massive Attack Palestinian flag prompts Singapore probe

Singapore police have opened an investigation after British trip-hop band Massive Attack displayed a Palestinian flag during a concert in the city-state.

The Singapore Police Force told AFP on Friday that reports had been lodged and investigations were ongoing. Police said the government's media regulator was also investigating a possible breach of licence conditions.

Singapore bans the public display of foreign flags, national emblems or banners without a permit. An unpermitted display of a foreign flag can be punished with a fine of up to 500 Singapore dollars, or $389, a maximum prison term of six months, or both.

A video circulating online showed two band members on stage raising a Palestinian flag to loud and prolonged cheers from the audience. Local media said the concert was held on Wednesday.

Broadcaster CNA quoted a concertgoer as saying band members shouted “free Palestine” during the performance and that many people in the audience joined the chant.

The concert promoter did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment.

Massive Attack is known for criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza and support for the Palestinian cause. In April, frontman Robert Del Naja was among more than 200 people arrested at a protest in London's Trafalgar Square in support of Palestine Action, an activist group banned by British authorities.