Brazilian authorities thwarted a planned attack targeting LGBTQ+ attendees at Lady Gaga’s free concert in Rio de Janeiro, arresting two suspects linked to an online hate group.
The concert, held at Copacabana Beach, drew an estimated 2.1 million fans, making it one of the largest live music events in the country.
The suspects allegedly attempted to recruit individuals, including teenagers, to carry out coordinated attacks using improvised explosives and Molotov cocktails. Their goal, according to police, was to gain notoriety on social media.
The arrested individuals were part of a radicalised online network that promoted hate crimes, self-harm, and violent content. Authorities revealed that the suspects posed as “Little Monsters”, the nickname for Lady Gaga’s fans, to lure potential recruits to their extremist agenda. The police operation, dubbed “Fake Monster”, led to multiple raids across Brazil, uncovering illegal weapons and child pornography.
One suspect was charged with terror offences, while another was arrested for illegal firearm possession.
Despite the serious nature of the plot, the concert proceeded without disruption, with security forces deploying thousands of officers, drones, and facial recognition cameras to ensure safety. Lady Gaga’s team stated that they were unaware of any security threats before or during the event. The swift action by Brazilian authorities prevented potential harm, reinforcing vigilance against extremist groups targeting marginalised communities.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the rise of online radicalisation and hate-driven violence. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have condemned the attempted attack, calling for stronger measures to combat extremism and protect vulnerable communities. The arrests serve as a reminder of the persistent threats faced by LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide and the need for continued efforts to safeguard inclusive spaces.
