Here’s a breakdown of Nicki Minaj’s arrest at Schiphol airport

World-famous American rapper, Nicki Minaj was arrested this weekend at Schiphol Airport — and her Barbz (fans) made sure to let their outrage show.

But why was Minaj arrested? Did she really commit a crime?

Here’s a breakdown of what led to that iconic livestream and why Minaj was arrested in the Netherlands. 👇

Exporting soft drugs

Fans took to social media with the hashtag #FREENICKI on Saturday after the rapper live-streamed her arrest at the Dutch airport.

And, as it was made quite clear, they were angry.

This is because there is a common misconception that weed is legal in the Netherlands. However, this is not actually the case.

Weed is not actually legal in the Netherlands

The Dutch government has a tolerant approach to the sale of “soft drugs” in coffeeshops.

READ MORE | Is smoking weed in Amsterdam legal? (+ 7 best coffeeshops!)

As a result, you can possess up to five grams of weed without getting in trouble.

However, as soon as you go above this amount or try to leave the country with it, you’re committing a crime — and unfortunately for Barbz, Minaj’s party did both.

READ MORE | The do’s and don’ts of smoking weed in Amsterdam

The Royal Military Police reported that a “significant amount of joints” were found as the singer tried to leave the Netherlands.

Security guard’s possession

On X, the singer explained that the joints actually belonged to her security guard.

However, according to the NOS, a fine, which Minaj paid, will go to her and not the security guard.

This also means that the offence will be on her Dutch criminal record.

It’s worth noting that Minaj’s arrest doesn’t mean her wardrobe will consist of prison orange for the next few tours. In fact, the matter is already done and dusted.

While she was whisked away in a police van and detained, in the end, Minaj only had to pay a €350 fine.

Still welcome in the Netherlands

As the fine is now paid, as far as the Dutch police are concerned, the case is closed.

However, Minaj will have to be on her best behaviour should she ever want to come to the Netherlands again — if she ever will. 😬

Speaking with the NOS, a spokesperson for the Public Prosecution Service explains that “She is still welcome in the Netherlands, but it is important that it does not happen again. Then the penalties will be higher.”

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Feature Image: MTV International/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0