Brazilian police have foiled a plot to bomb Lady Gaga’s free concert at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro last Saturday.
The Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro, along with Brazil’s Justice Ministry, announced that several suspects were recruited for the attack using homemade explosives.
The goal was apparently to create a social media sensation.
Arrests Made
The mastermind and a teenager were arrested in connection with the plot.
The main suspect was caught in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil, for illegal possession of firearms.
The teenager was arrested in Rio de Janeiro for possessing child pornography.
The group behind the plot spread hate speech targeting children, teens, and the LGBTQ+ community.
They encouraged teens to become radicalized and shared content promoting self-harm and violence as a challenge.
Fake Fan Group
The suspects claimed to be “Little Monsters,” Lady Gaga’s fan group.
However, authorities launched “Operation Fake Monster” after receiving a tip from Rio de Janeiro state police intelligence,
who discovered the group’s online violent content.
Lady Gaga’s concert was free, courtesy of Rio de Janeiro city, to boost the local economy.
Over 2 million people attended, with around 5,000 police officers on site for security.
The event is expected to generate $100 million.
Source: BBC