Nicki Minaj Arrested in Amsterdam for Alleged Drug Possession
Rapper Nicki Minaj, 41, was arrested this Saturday at Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport for alleged possession of soft drugs. The singer was on her way to Manchester, United Kingdom, for a concert as part of her Pink Friday 2 World Tour. Minaj shared a near minute-by-minute video of the incident on her social media accounts, capturing the moment airport authorities informed her about finding marijuana in her luggage and the subsequent proceedings.
In the video, Minaj, whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, can be seen expressing her dismay and maintaining her innocence as an officer insists on detaining her. "I don't have drugs, and I need a lawyer," she declares, adding that her security service had claimed ownership of the pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes. Despite her protests, Minaj was taken to a police station to be processed.
Impact on Concert Plans
Due to this incident, Minaj had to cancel her scheduled concert in Manchester on Saturday night. The concert promoter released a statement, emphasizing their disappointment and notifying fans that the show would be rescheduled. Tickets for the canceled event would be honored at the rescheduled show.
The Netherlands Police confirmed to the American network NBC that Minaj was arrested for possession of soft drugs, which is illegal though tolerated for recreational use within the country. After paying a fine, Minaj was released from custody.
The artist, known for her hits like Super Freaky Girl and Anaconda, has been an influential figure in the hip-hop industry, defying a male-dominated space and achieving great success with her albums, including her debut Pink Friday (2010). She also holds 12 Grammy Award nominations.
Social Media Outcry and Public Reactions
Minaj took to social networks, including an Instagram Live and a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), to narrate the ordeal. She accused the authorities of trying to delay her and create a negative narrative around her. "Jealousy is a disease," she stated in one of her posts.
This incident has sparked a range of reactions from fans and the public, with many expressing support for Minaj and criticizing the actions of the Dutch authorities. As the story continues to unfold, it remains a significant topic of discussion across various media platforms.
- In subsequent statements, Minaj's representatives have clarified that they are cooperating with legal advisors to address the situation. They emphasized that the artist was not in possession of the drugs and highlighted the possibility of a misunderstanding or mishandling by airport security.
- Nicki Minaj's career has been marked by her trailblazing influence in the music industry, breaking barriers for female rappers. Her confrontational style and lyrical prowess have earned her a dedicated global fan base and critical acclaim.
- Despite the setback, concert promoters are optimistic about the rescheduled shows, ensuring fans that the tour will continue as planned once the situation is resolved.
- Minaj's fans have taken to social media platforms using hashtags like #FreeNicki and #JusticeForNicki to express their solidarity and demand fair treatment for the artist.
