After terror threat in Vienna - News on the Swift concerts investigation
Security authorities have provided new insights a week after canceling three Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna due to suspected terror threats. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP) stated that five individuals have been identified as being part of the environment of observed threats by the constitutional protection service. These individuals were supposed to be deployed in the facility and catering areas during the concerts, according to the interior minister.
One recants confession, one remains silent
After the terror alert, three young men were arrested, two of whom are suspected of planning an attack on Swift fans waiting outside the stadium using explosives and knives. A total of 17 mobile phones were seized, Karner said, indicating that a large amount of data needs to be reviewed.
The 19-year-old main suspect and his 17-year-old alleged accomplice are being investigated for membership in a terrorist organization and criminal association. The two young men had sworn allegiance to the Islamic State terrorist group. The 19-year-old has reportedly retracted his initial confession, while the younger one remains silent.
Five Swift concerts in London are scheduled
Swift's first concert since the Vienna incidents is planned for Thursday. The 34-year-old is set to perform at five dates in London. She has not yet commented on the events.
Despite the identified terrorism threat, intense investigations are ongoing to ensure the safety of Taylor Swift's upcoming London concerts. The main suspect in the Vienna incident has contradicted his initial confession, raising additional security concerns.
