Lady Gaga this Saturday on Copacabana beach!
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, May 3 (EFE).-
Authorities in Rio de Janeiro have mobilized a massive security operation involving some 5,000 personnel for the highly anticipated free concert by New Yorker pop icon Lady Gaga this Saturday on Copacabana beach. The show is expected to draw an audience of at least 1.6 million people.
According to an official statement, the plan includes 3,300 military police officers patrolling the area, 1,500 civil police reinforcing local stations, and 400 firefighters on standby for emergencies.
The security apparatus aims to prevent thefts, fights, and other incidents like those that occurred during Madonna’s 2023 free concert in the same location, which drew over a million fans but also prompted criticism over public safety issues.
The operation will include 78 observation towers, drones equipped with facial recognition technology, and 12 additional surveillance cameras monitoring the event area.
“We have planned all necessary infrastructure for the concert, with reinforced security teams and support services available to the public along the Copacabana shoreline. We are ready,” said Rio state governor Cláudio Castro.
Rio’s mayor, Eduardo Paes, echoed the message, saying in a video posted on social media that the extensive security plan is designed to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees.
“Let’s have fun with responsibility and respect for others,” he urged.
Fans began gathering in front of the massive stage early Saturday morning, although Lady Gaga’s performance is not scheduled to begin until 9:45 pm.
On Friday night, the Grammy and Oscar-winning artist made a surprise appearance during a rehearsal, drawing hundreds of enthusiastic fans to the beachfront venue.
Lady Gaga’s return to Brazil is highly anticipated.
In 2017, she canceled her headline performance at Rock in Rio due to health issues, disappointing thousands of fans.
Nearly a decade later, she is back for a landmark event that is part of a city-backed initiative to bring major international artists to Rio annually.
Officials estimate the economic impact of the concert at 107 million dollars, reflecting the boost to tourism, local businesses, and services. EFE cms/seo
