Siberia's largest city says no to Cradle of Filth

Local Christian activists opposed the performance of the "satanic" band in Siberia's largest city. Reports said a snap raid by drugs police at the venue prevented the gig from proceeding in front of a waiting audience of 200 fans.

'I don't know what reason to give you to explain that the concert did not go-ahead. Write that it was a technical reason,' said tour organiser Viktor Zakharenko.

Many took to social networks to express their anger against 'Orthodox activists', asking if the next step will be to edit classical music concerts and censor local orchestra's for their choice of music. 

'Is this a new kind of business now, to sell all the tickets, then call these 'activists', cancel the show and not give money back?' asked a man named as Dmitri said on his Facebook page.

'I think now all Satan groups must take up the challenge and make it a matter of pride to come and sing in Siberia,' said Vera.

 Cradle of Filth are due to play four more venues in Siberia. 

Earlier radical Christian groups have targeted a number of extreme metal bands on tour in Russia, branding them offensive to the Christian faith which, if proven, is a criminal offense in the country. Marilyn Manson and American death metal legends Cannibal Corpse had shows cancelled in Russia.