Brazilian police have arrested 10 people suspected of planning terrorist acts during next month’s Rio Olympics, Brazil’s Justice Ministry said Thursday.
The group was inspired by ISIS and mostly organized online, the Justice Minister said.
He said no specific targets were mentioned, but the Justice Ministry is still investigating the suspects’ computers and cell phones to learn more about the possible plans.
The Minister said the suspects are all Brazilian nationals, and that one minor was mentioned in the conversations.
Another two people have warrants out for their arrests. Authorities said they believe those suspects will be arrested soon.
He said the group was not an organized cell, calling it “absolutely amateur — with no preparation.” He noted the group tried to buy a gun online, which no organized cell would do.
But Brazil has grappled with a host of threats against the Rio Olympics, now just 15 days away.
This week, Brazil’s intelligence agency said it was reviewing all threats after a jihadi messaging channel called for its followers to target the Olympics, which start August 5.
But Brazil has vowed it will be ready to handle any terror attempt. Brazilian Forces have been working with French Swat Teams in simulation exercises.
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