Behemoth have been fined 2,000 rubles (roughly $58 USD) each for touring in Russia without the proper visas and ordered to return home. The group were originally detained for the oversight yesterday. It appears as though the band did indeed have the wrong visas filed, having followed what they thought was proper advice. They appeared before a judge this morning with frontman/guitarist Nergal telling Polsat News:
“It seemed like we actually got a really nice judge. And wise, because this was a humane decision … it felt like she sympathized with us. We actually received the minimal fine with a recommendation for how to leave Russia as quickly as possible. Now we want to get some rest after a sleepless night and return home as quickly as possible.”
The conditions of bands overnight detainment were less than desirable with the group alleging feces was smeared upon the walls, among other things. A Russian video report from the proceedings can be seen after the break. In light of the situation the band intend to head home, cancelling the remaining dates of their Russian trek.
