Argentina Arrests Man for Death Threats Against Pope Leo XIV
The detention followed a threatening call and came as the Pope began public events in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Luján.
Argentina’s State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE), which answers to the presidency, announced the arrest of a man for alleged death threats against Pope Leo XIV on the eve of the Holy Father’s arrival in the country.
The detention followed information developed by the agency’s Undersecretariat of Operations and was carried out “in less than 24 hours from when the threat information was obtained.” Authorities released no further operational details in the statement.
Investigation and charges
The probe began Friday, November 6, after the Antiterrorist Investigation Unit (DUIA) of the Argentine Federal Police reported an intimidating telephone call targeting the Pope’s life. Official sources identified the suspect as a 49-year-old laborer arrested in Pilar, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires.
At his home, officers recovered three mobile phones, one of which is believed to have been used for the threatening call, along with a drone whose capabilities remain under examination. He is charged with anonymous threats and public intimidation with terrorist purpose. The government has not publicly named the individual.
Pastoral visit under heightened security
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Argentina on Sunday for a four-day apostolic journey that includes large public gatherings in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and the national Marian shrine at Luján. The timing of the threat and the rapid response underscore the protective measures surrounding the Successor of Peter during pastoral travel in the region.
The Church has long taught that every human life, including that of the Roman Pontiff, possesses inviolable dignity. Acts of intimidation against the Pope strike not only at a person but at the visible principle of unity in the Catholic Church. Faithful in Argentina and beyond are invited to pray for the Holy Father’s safety and for the conversion of those who resort to violence or threats.
No additional arrests or related incidents have been confirmed as the visit proceeds.