Nicki Minaj released from Dutch police custody after drug allegation

When she shot the incident, the artist was on her way to Manchester, England, for the next show of her Pink Friday 2 World Tour.

Arrest and Release:

Nicki Minaj has been released from police custody in the Netherlands, following her arrest at Schiphol Airport on suspicion of carrying drugs. The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee confirmed Minaj’s release in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, May 25. 

The statement, translated from Dutch, read, “We have just released a 41-year-old American woman who we arrested this afternoon at Schiphol on suspicion of exporting soft drugs. After consultation with the Public Prosecution Service, the suspect was fined and can continue her journey.”

Incident at Schiphol Airport:

The arrest took place at Schiphol Airport as Minaj was en route to Manchester, England, for a show on her Pink Friday 2 World Tour. 

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In an Instagram Live video shared by a fan account on X, Minaj is seen interacting with Dutch police officers who informed her of the arrest for “carrying drugs.” Despite her repeated denials and requests for a lawyer, Minaj eventually complied and entered a police van at the airport.

Police and Public Statements:

A spokesperson for the Dutch police told NBC News that they had arrested a 41-year-old American woman at Schiphol Airport for possession of soft drugs. 

The incident led to a fine after which Minaj was allowed to continue her journey. Representatives for Minaj and the Amsterdam police did not immediately respond to requests for comment from PEOPLE.

Additional Video and Claims:

In a second video posted on Instagram, Minaj is heard conversing with a man in a suit who explained that the officers wanted to search her luggage again because she had filmed the police officer. The man stated, “… He doesn’t believe you don’t have more with you than you said.”

Context and Ongoing Tour:

Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, was traveling as part of her Pink Friday 2 World Tour when the incident occurred. 

The arrest and subsequent release did not appear to significantly delay her tour schedule. This event highlights ongoing scrutiny and legal challenges faced by public figures during international travel.

Conclusion:

The quick resolution of Minaj’s arrest, with a fine and subsequent release, underscores the complexities celebrities can face with law enforcement while on tour. 

Minaj’s openness about the incident on social media has brought significant public attention, shedding light on both her personal experiences and the broader issues surrounding drug regulations and law enforcement procedures.