- A lot of police at Ed Sheeran's after Swift's concerts were canceled.
A week after the cancellation of three Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna due to suspected terror threats, the next major music event in Austria is under enhanced security. For the four-day "Frequency" Festival in St. Pölten, security measures have been bolstered, even without a specific terror alert, said Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP). The top act on the first day is British singer Ed Sheeran.
There will be plainclothes officers in the audience and special forces deployed at strategic locations to intervene quickly if necessary, Karner said. Around 50,000 fans are expected daily.
Updates on the investigation into the Swift concerts
Karner stated that five individuals have been identified who, according to the domestic intelligence agency, are associated with observed threats. These individuals were supposed to be working in the facilities and catering areas at the concerts, the interior minister said.
After the terror alert, three young men were arrested, two of whom are suspected of planning an attack on Swift's fans waiting outside the stadium using explosives and knives. A total of 17 mobile phones were seized, Karner said, indicating a large amount of data to be reviewed.
One recants confession, one remains silent
The main suspect, a 19-year-old, and his alleged 17-year-old accomplice are being investigated for membership in a terrorist organization and criminal association. Both young men had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State terrorist group. The 19-year-old has reportedly recanted his initial confession, while the younger one remains silent.
Despite the heightened security at the "Frequency" Festival following the Taylor Swift concerts' cancellation due to terror threats, the event promises to be a lively four-day musical extravaganza with Ed Sheeran headlining. Undercover officers and special forces will ensure the safety of the estimated 50,000 daily attendees, although no specific threat has been announced.
