Police appeal over Beyonce ticket fraud

That’s the question being posed by detectives from British Transport Police investigating more than 100 cases of ticket fraud relating to Beyonce’s recent concerts at the Phones 4U Arena, Manchester.

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

“We believe there have been more than 140 sets of fake tickets sold, though only seven victims have come forward so far.

“In most cases the tickets have sold for at least £100 each and each victim has bought at least two tickets, so we are potentially looking at a fraud worth more than £28,000.”

DC Dermody added: “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.

“I believe the victims of this fraudster will be spread far and wide as people travel from all over the UK to see Beyonce.

“I am, therefore, appealing to anyone who has been sold fake tickets, but has not yet spoken to police to come forward.

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

If you have any information about the fraudulent tickets call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40. In all calls please quote BTP log NWA/B5 of 28/2/14.