Ticketless fans riot at Iron Maiden concert

By Patrick Luce Mar 9, 2009, 18:04 GMT

More than 100 people were arrested in Colombia following a riot at an Iron Maiden concert that sparked off when ticketless fans attempted to get through the concert gates to hear the band.

The riot happened in Bogota several hours before the heavy metal rockers took the stage. During the clash, police fired tear gas canisters at the crowd of fans attempting to enter the concert without tickets. One police officer was reportedly injured from fans throwing rocks at the police.

The concert saw a reported 25,000 fans fill the Simon Bolivar Park on Saturday, and the riot has caused local authorities to question if future heavy metal concerts would be allowed.

News reports have stated 40 to more than 100 people have been arrested as a result of the riot. The group is still in custody and reportedly will be required to pay for damages to traffic lights and signs.

The news agencies have also reported police officer Rolado Arturo Girata Mora required reconstructive surgery due to a facial injury.

The riot was over by the time Iron Maiden hit the stage with their opening number “Aces High.” The band has yet to comment on the riot, and has resumed their tour of South America. They are scheduled to play the Ecuadorian capital of Quito on Tuesday.