Brazilian police announced they had prevented a bomb attack intended for Lady Gaga’s concert at Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday.
According to Rio de Janeiro state’s Civil Police, working alongside the justice ministry, the suspects had been recruiting individuals to carry out attacks using improvised explosive devices, with the aim of gaining attention on social media.
Police arrested the mastermind behind the plot, along with a teenager. Lady Gaga’s team stated they only became aware of the threat through media reports the morning after the event. Over two million people had gathered for the free concert.
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Police Crack Down on Extremist Group Behind Concert Threat
Police said the group spread hate speech against children, adolescents, and the LGBTQ+ community. Authorities arrested the mastermind for firearm possession and detained a teenager for child pornography. They were also promoting teen radicalization, including self-harm and violence.
A spokesperson for Lady Gaga told The Hollywood Reporter: “We learned about this alleged threat via media reports this morning.
“Prior to and during the show, there were no known safety concerns, nor any communication from the police or authorities to Lady Gaga regarding any potential risks.”
The justice ministry said the suspects had identified themselves as Lady Gaga fans, known widely as “Little Monsters”.
Police launched “Operation Fake Monster” after receiving a tip-off from Rio state police intelligence. The tip uncovered online groups promoting violence among teenagers using coded language and extremist symbolism. Search warrants were issued across Rio de Janeiro, Mato Grosso, Rio Grande do Sul, and Sao Paulo. Authorities seized electronic devices and other materials.
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Massive Security Operation and Emotional Return to Brazil
The city funded the concert in an attempt to revitalize Rio’s economy, expecting it to bring in $100m (£75m).
In a massive security operation, 5,000 officers were deployed and attendees had to pass through metal detectors. Drones and facial recognition cameras were also used to police the event.
Lady Gaga, who last performed in Brazil in 2012, took the stage as part of a tour to promote her eighth album, Mayhem.
The singer wore Brazil-themed costumes for some of her acts, with outfits inspired by the national football team.
“You waited for more than 10 years for me,” an emotional Lady Gaga told the huge crowd, holding out a Brazilian flag.
