Austrian security officials have arrested a 19-year-old who was reportedly planning a suicide attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna. The teen, who had previously pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group (IS), allegedly confessed to intending to use explosives and knives to target “a large crowd of people.” As a result, Swift’s three sold-out shows at the Ernst Happel Stadium have been canceled, affecting over 195,000 expected attendees.
Local media revealed that the suspect had stolen chemicals from his job at a metal processing company in Ternitz and had made progress in building a bomb. Reports also indicated he planned to drive a car into the crowd outside the venue. During a news conference, officials noted that substances and devices discovered at the suspect’s residence demonstrated “concrete preparatory actions.” They also seized weapons from his home.
The suspect, an Austrian citizen of North Macedonian descent, had recently altered his appearance to align with Islamic State propaganda and had been consuming and sharing Islamist materials online. Two additional suspects were also identified: a 17-year-old employed at a company set to provide services at the concert venue and a 15-year-old who was arrested nearby but has remained silent with authorities.
Interior Minister Gerhard Karner stated that a tragedy had been averted, crediting international intelligence collaboration for thwarting the attack. He emphasized that the terrorist threat has increased in Europe and reiterated that major concerts often attract Islamist attacks. While no specific threats have been identified regarding upcoming events in Austria, security measures remain heightened. Swift’s Vienna concerts were part of her European Eras Tour, which has already visited several countries. She is scheduled to perform five shows at Wembley Stadium in London next week, prompting UK authorities to assess intelligence to ensure safety at the event. London Mayor Sadiq Khan confirmed that the city would proceed with plans for the concerts, ensuring police cooperation for safety.
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