In a startling revelation, Lloyds Bank has reported that Oasis fans in the UK have collectively lost over £2 million to fraudulent ticket sales. The scams, predominantly occurring on social media platforms, have affected at least 5,000 victims since the tickets for the band's highly anticipated reunion tour went on sale. The bank's analysis, based on fraud reports from its customers, highlights the growing menace of online ticket fraud.

The average loss per victim stands at approximately £436, with one individual reportedly defrauded of £1,700. A significant majority of these scams, about 90%, were facilitated through Meta's social media platforms, primarily Facebook. Liz Ziegler, Lloyds' fraud prevention director, emphasized the need for stronger measures by social media companies to combat these fraudulent listings, which often violate the platforms' own policies.

The announcement of Oasis's reunion tour last year sparked immense excitement among fans, leading to a chaotic ticket sale that saw all dates sell out within the first day. This frenzy created a fertile ground for scammers, who exploited the high demand by posting fake listings offering tickets at reduced prices. The situation has prompted calls for consumers to remain vigilant and purchase tickets only from authorized retailers to avoid falling prey to such scams.

Meanwhile, the UK's competition regulator, the CMA, has initiated an investigation into Ticketmaster, the official ticket vendor for the Oasis tour. The probe aims to assess whether buyers were provided with clear information and if they were pressured into making quick purchases. As the tour dates approach, the spotlight remains on the need for enhanced security measures and consumer awareness to prevent further losses to ticket fraud.

In a disturbing incident that has left the community of Huyton in shock, a man was shot by armed police after a stabbing attack that left two people with serious injuries. The incident, which occurred on the Bluebell Estate in Huyton, has prompted Merseyside Police to refer themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), as is standard procedure in such cases.

The attack took place in the Tobruk Road area, where a man and a woman were stabbed, leading to a swift response from armed officers. The suspect, a man in his 30s, was shot by police and is currently in hospital with serious but stable injuries. The victims, a woman in her 50s and a man in his 20s, are also receiving treatment for their injuries, which are described as serious but stable.

Detective Superintendent Paul Speight of Merseyside Police addressed the community's concerns, emphasizing the force's commitment to public safety and the seriousness with which incidents involving weapons are treated. He reassured residents that this was an isolated incident and that no further suspects are being sought. The IOPC has begun an independent investigation into the police's actions during the incident.

The area around Tobruk Road remains cordoned off as investigations continue, with a significant police presence still in place. The community is urged to come forward with any information that may assist in the ongoing inquiries. This incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to violent crimes and the importance of independent oversight in maintaining public trust.