American rapper Nicki Minaj was recently freed by Dutch police after being detained at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport on suspicion of exporting soft drugs. The 41-year-old artist, who was en route to a concert in Manchester, was fined and allowed to continue her journey after the incident.

Minaj captured part of her encounter with the police on social media, where an officer can be heard telling her she was under arrest. Despite the legal hiccup, fans at the Co-op Live venue in Manchester remained hopeful that the show would proceed as planned, with many chanting ‘Free Nicki Minaj’ in support of the artist.

Georgina Warde and Darcy Nicholls, both 18, expressed their anticipation for the concert and their disappointment at the possibility of it being canceled. Known for her occasional tardiness, Minaj’s fans were prepared for delays but remained optimistic about the event.

In response to the incident, Minaj posted messages on social media, highlighting the situation in Amsterdam where cannabis is legal. Despite the delayed start, the concert at Co-op Live eventually commenced, with a helicopter waiting at Manchester Airport to transport the rapper to the venue.

While drug possession, sale, or production is technically illegal in the Netherlands, the country adopts a policy of tolerance towards small-scale drug activities. The BBC has sought comment from Minaj’s representatives regarding the incident.