Police Warn Beyoncé Fans Following £28,000 Ticket Scam

Fraudsters target Queen Bey's Manchester gig

Published 28th Feb 2014

An estimated £28,000 worth of fake tickets were sold for Beyoncé’s two shows in Manchester this week.

At least 280 devastated fans thought they had tickets to Queen Bey’s sold-out shows on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Phones 4U Arena only to be turned away from the venue.

In a statement, British Transport Police said the 140 pairs of tickets sold for in excess of £100 each meaning the total value is at least £28,000. They’re urging anyone who has been scammed to come forward.

Detective Constable Mike Dermody said: “It seems that someone has been selling fake tickets to concert goers who only realise the tickets aren’t genuine when they get to the venue.

“Each transaction has taken place over the internet, using public selling websites, with the victims arranging to meet someone in Manchester to pick up the tickets.

“We have a number of leads, but need as many people as possible to get in touch.”

A spokeman for the Phones 4U Arena added: “We can report a small number of fans arrived at the venue with counterfeit tickets.

“We immediately notified BTP of fraudulent activity and have passed the matter onto them.

“Whilst we fully understand the frustration felt by fans we can only urge people to purchase tickets via official sources as this is the only way to guarantee entry to the show.”

If you bought a fake ticket, please contact the British Transport Police on 0800 405040.

Beyoncé’s Mrs Carter Show World Tour continues at London’s O2 Arena tonight.