Two Arrested in Alleged Bomb Plot at Lady Gaga's Rio Concert
On May 3, 2025, Lady Gaga performed a free concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The event attracted approximately 2.5 million attendees, setting a new record for the largest audience at a female artist's concert.
Prior to the concert, Brazilian police arrested two individuals in connection with an alleged bomb plot targeting the event. One suspect, an adult male, was arrested in Rio Grande do Sul for illegal firearm possession. The other, a teenager, was detained in Rio de Janeiro on child pornography charges. Authorities believe both were involved in planning to detonate homemade explosives during the concert.
The suspects were reportedly part of an anti-LGBTQ+ hate group that attempted to recruit individuals, including minors, for coordinated attacks. They allegedly posed as Lady Gaga fans online to lure participants. Police conducted raids on 15 other suspects across Brazil, seizing electronic devices.
Despite the serious threat, Lady Gaga and her team were unaware of the plot until media reports surfaced after the concert. A spokesperson stated:
"Her team worked closely with law enforcement throughout the planning and execution of the concert and all parties were confident in the safety measures in place."
The concert proceeded without incident, with Lady Gaga expressing gratitude to her fans in an Instagram post:
"Nothing could prepare me for the feeling I had during last night’s show — the absolute pride and joy I felt singing for the people of Brazil."
