Austrian authorities have thwarted a plot by three teenagers to attack Taylor Swift’s concert in Vienna, revealing plans to cause mass casualties similar to previous terrorist attacks in Paris, Manchester, and Moscow. The suspects, arrested on Wednesday, aimed to kill as many people as possible at the concert using explosives and knives, according to Chancellor Karl Nehammer.
The main suspect, a 19-year-old Austrian with Macedonian roots, was radicalized online and swore allegiance to the Islamic State. Authorities found a stockpile of weapons, explosives, and chemicals at his home in Ternitz, along with ISIS propaganda and counterfeit money. The 19-year-old had no ticket to the concert but had planned to use a police siren system to gain entry.
The plot also involved two other suspects, aged 17 and 15. The 17-year-old worked for a company providing services at the concert venue and was arrested near the stadium. The 15-year-old’s role remains unclear, but he has corroborated many details of the main suspect’s confession.
The arrests came after a tip from U.S. intelligence. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner emphasized the increased danger of Islamist extremism in Europe, especially following recent attacks in Israel.
Taylor Swift’s three concerts in Vienna, scheduled from Thursday to Saturday, were canceled by promoter Barracuda Music in coordination with Swift’s management. The decision was made to ensure the safety of the more than 200,000 fans expected to attend.
Swift’s tour is set to continue in London next week, with five sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium. London Mayor Sadiq Khan confirmed that the city would proceed with the concerts, ensuring close cooperation with police to maintain safety.
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