Brazil arrests 10 suspected members of IS-linked group
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 21 July 2016 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Brazil arrests 10 suspected members of IS-linked group, 21 July 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/57a43ca3c.html [accessed 18 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
July 21, 2016
Brazilian police have arrested 10 suspected members of a group that had planned attacks during the Olympic Summer Games, which start in Rio de Janeiro on August 5.
Justice Minister Alexandre de Moraes, who said two more members were being sought, added that the group had talked about using weapons and guerrilla tactics to launch an attack during the Olympics.
But he labeled the group of Brazilian nationals as "an absolutely amateur cell" and "disorganized."
The alleged plotters were arrested across the huge country and had been in contact via messaging services WhatsApp and Telegram.
Authorities also downplayed links to the Islamic State (IS) extremist group, which some of the group's members had sworn allegiance to.
Security is the top priority during the Olympics, with authorities saying around 85,000 police and soldiers will be patrolling during the competitions.
Based on reporting by Reuters and AP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
