New Orleans, Louisiana - On June 26, 2025, Louisiana State Police arrested Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu, 41, of New Orleans, for disrupting the Super Bowl LIX halftime show held at the Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025. The incident occurred during the halftime performance featuring rapper Kendrick Lamar.
According to the investigation led by Troop NOLA, a specialized Louisiana State Police unit, Nantambu was part of the 400-member cast authorized to be on the field. However, he deviated from his assigned role by retrieving a Sudanese flag bearing the message "Sudan and Free Gaza." He then ran across the field waving the flag, causing a significant disruption to the show. Security and law enforcement personnel quickly recognized the unauthorized demonstration and apprehended Nantambu after he refused to comply with commands to stop.
The Louisiana State Police worked in coordination with the National Football League (NFL) and confirmed that while Nantambu had permission to be on the field, he did not have permission to engage in a political demonstration during the event. An arrest warrant was obtained through the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. Nantambu surrendered himself with the assistance of his attorney and was booked into the Orleans Parish Justice Center on charges of resisting an officer and disturbing the peace by interrupting a lawful assembly.
Initially, New Orleans Police had indicated that the performer would not face charges immediately following the event. However, after a prolonged investigation, the state police took the lead and announced the arrest. The NFL spokesperson praised the diligence of law enforcement, emphasizing the league’s firm stance against attempts to disrupt games, including halftime shows.
Beyond this incident, Nantambu has reportedly publicly claimed to be the individual involved in an unrelated May 2025 shooting incident with Antonio Brown at a Miami boxing event, though this is separate from the Super Bowl case.
The investigation into the halftime show disruption remains ongoing as authorities continue to assess the full circumstances surrounding Nantambu’s actions.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.