Brazilian authorities announced the arrest of two individuals connected to a planned bombing at a free concert by Lady Gaga on Copacabana Beach. This event, which took place on Saturday, attracted an estimated 2.1 million fans.

Plot Details and Arrests

State police of Rio de Janeiro reported that they collaborated with the Justice Ministry to prevent an attack orchestrated by a group promoting hate speech against the LGBTQ community. The group was reportedly attempting to radicalize teenagers for potential attacks using Molotov cocktails and improvised explosives.

Among the arrested were the alleged leader, apprehended in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul for illegal weapons possession, and a teenager taken into custody on charges related to child pornography in Rio itself.

A Night to Remember

The concert was a historic occasion for Lady Gaga, marking one of the largest shows of her career. “Tonight, we’re making history,” she declared before a roaring crowd as she opened the performance with her hit “Bloody Mary.”

Gaga’s show also featured classics like “Poker Face” and “Alejandro,” during which she changed into various outfits, including one inspired by the Brazilian flag.

Economic Benefits

The concert was part of a broader initiative by Rio’s City Hall to stimulate economic growth, which included plans to generate an estimated 600 million reais (around $106 million). City officials had previously organized similar large-scale events to boost tourism after Carnival and New Year celebrations.

Osmar Lima, the city’s secretary for economic development, noted that such events help revitalize the area during off-peak seasons by increasing hotel occupancy and consumer spending.

Fan Experience and Preparations

The anticipation for Gaga’s return to Brazil—her first performance in the country since 2012—drew fans from across the globe, including more than 500,000 tourists. Many attendees camped out from the early morning hours at the beach to secure prime viewing spots, showcasing their dedication and excitement.

Security Measures Implemented

In response to the potential threat, rigorous security measures were put in place. A total of 3,300 military personnel, 1,500 police officers, and 400 firefighters were deployed to maintain safety throughout the event.

A Tradition of Large Concerts

The concert at Copacabana Beach is part of a tradition of hosting significant live performances in Rio de Janeiro. Previous events have drawn millions, including an estimated 4 million attendees for a New Year’s Eve concert by Rod Stewart in 1994, which holds the record for the largest free rock concert to date.