The Chinese government has pulled the plug on Oasis [ tickets ]' planned performances in that country next month.

According to a statement posted today (3/2) at Oasis's website, "representatives from the Chinese government have revoked the performance licenses already issued for the band and ordered their shows in both Beijing and Shanghai to be immediately cancelled."

The announcement comes two days after ticket sales for the April 3 show at Beijing's Capital Arena and April 5 performance at Shanghai's Grand Stage were halted with no immediate explanation.

The unexpected cancellation occurred when Chinese authorities learned of British rocker/guitarist Noel Gallagher's appearance at a 1997 "Free Tibet" benefit concert in the US, according to the band's statement. Because of this, the government "deemed that the band is ... unsuitable to perform for their fans in the Chinese Republic."

Though musicians worldwide have included China in their tour plans, the country is known for their strict regulation of live performances.

The remainder of the East Asian tour--an April 7 stop in Hong Kong--is still on the books.