Two people were arrested after Brazilian police stopped a planned bombing at Lady Gaga’s concert in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday night.
The concert, held at the famous Copacabana Beach, drew a massive crowd of over 2 million people.
Authorities revealed on Sunday that the suspects were part of a group known for spreading hate speech and trying to radicalise teenagers. Police said the attackers specifically aimed to target LGBTQ+ fans at the concert.
“They were clearly saying that they were planning an attack at Lady Gaga’s concert, motivated by sexual orientation,” Felipe Cury, the secretary of Rio police, said at a press conference.
Police kept operation quiet
Police decided not to reveal the suspected plot before the concert. Cury explained that the goal was to avoid public panic and prevent false or exaggerated information from spreading.
Even though the threat loomed, security at the event was already tight. More than 5,200 military and police officers were stationed across the beach and surrounding areas. Fans gathered to watch the superstar perform her biggest hits, including the LGBTQ+ anthem Born This Way.
The large police presence helped ensure the event ran smoothly. No violence or disruption was reported on the night of the concert.
Lady Gaga’s team reacts
Lady Gaga’s team responded after news of the foiled plot spread through media reports. According to a spokesperson, the singer and her crew had not been warned by authorities about any threats before or during the show.
“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 spokesperson said in a statement.
The team also stressed that they had worked closely with law enforcement in the planning and execution of the event. “All parties were confident in the safety measures in place,” the spokesperson added.
Hate groups under watch
Brazilian police say they continue to monitor groups spreading hate and violence, especially those using the internet to radicalise young people. Authorities are investigating whether the two arrested suspects are connected to a larger network.
The suspects reportedly made online posts about their plans to attack the concert. Police are now checking their digital devices and social media activity for more evidence and possible links to other extremist groups.
A record-breaking night for Lady Gaga
Saturday’s show marked another record for Lady Gaga. The pop icon drew one of the largest concert crowds ever seen in Rio, turning Copacabana Beach into a sea of fans.
Lady Gaga, known for her bold support of the LGBTQ+ community, performed hits from across her career. Fans waved rainbow flags, danced, and sang along under heavy police watch.
Despite the threat, the event went off without any visible issues, showing the strength of the security efforts in place.
Public reaction
News of the planned attack has shocked fans and the wider public. Many have praised the police for acting quickly and preventing what could have been a deadly tragedy.
Social media has been flooded with messages of thanks to law enforcement. Fans also shared their relief that Lady Gaga and the audience were kept safe.
Local LGBTQ+ rights groups have urged authorities to stay vigilant against rising hate crimes and extremism. They stress the need for more protection and education to counter radicalisation efforts targeting young people.
Looking ahead
Police say the investigation is ongoing. They are working to identify any others involved in the plot and to stop future threats.
Authorities have promised to strengthen their efforts against hate groups and to improve coordination with event organisers and international artists performing in Brazil.
For now, fans and the Lady Gaga team can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that a major tragedy was avoided. But the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of public events and the growing reach of extremist hate.
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