A surprising moment from Super Bowl LIX has led to an arrest months later. On February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, a performer disrupted the halftime show. He walked out with a Sudanese flag reading
“Sudan and Free Gaza”, pausing the performance. Now, on June 26, 2025, Louisiana State Police arrested 41-year-old Zul‑Qarnain Kwame Nantambu for his actions during Kendrick Lamar’s star‑studded act. The arrest stems from an investigation launched right after the incident.
Zul‑Qarnain Kwame Nantambu deviated from role and was arrested after months-long probe
Nantambu was hired as part of the 400‑person cast during Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance. State troopers say he added a protest by running across the field clutching a Sudanese flag with the message “Sudan and Free Gaza".
During the show, he refused to stop when security ordered him, leading to his removal from the field. Surveillance and reports showed that although he had authorized access as a dancer, his protest wasn’t part of the act.
After Super Bowl Sunday, New Orleans police initially did not charge him. But Troop NOLA and the Louisiana State Police continued the inquiry. They obtained an arrest warrant from Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, and Nantambu surrendered on June 26, 2025, with his attorney’s help.
He was booked on two charges: Resisting an Officer and Disturbing the Peace by Interruption of a Lawful Assembly.
NFL bans Zul‑Qarnain Kwame Nantambu for life and investigation remains open
Following the arrest, the NFL issued a statement praising the Louisiana State Police and confirming that Nantambu is banned for life from all NFL games and events. The league said it takes any on‑field disruption seriously and aims to hold the performer fully accountable.
Sgt. Katharine Stegall of Louisiana State Police noted the case is still under review. While the halftime distraction did not air live, it made headlines and sparked debate after the broadcast.
The flag-waving incident bridged international topics, primarily the wars in Gaza and Sudan, with one of America’s biggest sporting events. The incident hasn't completely played out as authorities are still investigating.
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