Brazilian police have arrested two people accused of planning an attack at Lady Gaga’s free concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. The concert, held on May 3, drew over 2 million fans, making it one of the biggest live music events in the world this year.
Authorities say the suspects were planning to target LGBTQ+ concertgoers with improvised explosives and Molotov cocktails. The suspects reportedly tried to recruit others online, including teenagers, to carry out the attack. Their goal, according to police, was to gain attention on social media.
The arrests were part of a national investigation called Operation Fake Monster, led by Brazil’s Civil Police, Federal Police, and Ministry of Justice. One suspect, an adult, was arrested in Rio Grande do Sul, and the other, a teenager, in Rio de Janeiro. Police said no explosives were found during the raids, but one of the suspects was found with child pornography.
In a separate case, a third person was arrested for allegedly planning to kill a child in what authorities called a “satanist ritual.” Police believe this person was influenced by online hate groups and falsely believed Lady Gaga was involved in satanic practices.
The suspects were members of a radical online group that promotes hate, self-harm, and violence. They posed as fans of Lady Gaga — often referred to as “Little Monsters” — in an attempt to lure others into their plot.
Despite the serious threat, the concert continued safely. A spokesperson for Lady Gaga said the singer and her team were unaware of the threat until after the event. They stated that no security concerns were raised by law enforcement before or during the performance.
Police said they carried out the operation quietly to avoid causing panic. They also thanked the U.S. Consulate for helping identify threats.
Lady Gaga later posted a message to fans, saying she was overwhelmed by the love and support she felt during the show. “Your heart shines so bright,” she wrote on Instagram. “I’m grateful to have shared this historical moment with you.”
Authorities say investigations into hate crimes and online extremism will continue, and that all individuals involved will face justice.
This is a developing story.
