Thousands reportedly forced their way into a Dhaka concert without tickets on Friday, triggering chaos and complaints over security arrangements at an event headlined by rock star James and his band Nagar Baul.
The incident took place at the ‘Rock N Rhythm 5.0: No Limits in the Zone’ concert at Jamuna Future Park on 23 October, shortly before James was due to perform.
As crowds broke through security barriers, the venue became overcrowded, leaving many ticket-holders frustrated. Organisers eventually opened the main gates as the situation became difficult to control, further angering those who had paid to attend.
Videos shared on social media showed people chanting “fake, fake” and questioning the event’s management. One attendee complained that many people had entered without tickets. Another video appeared to show security personnel restraining and beating an audience member.
Police were deployed to manage the crowds and disperse people gathered near the entrances.
The incident has raised questions about crowd control and ticketing arrangements at the concert. Ticket-holders struggled to enjoy the event amid the disorder, while the videos circulating online fuelled criticism of the organisers.
