Three highly anticipated concerts by Taylor Swift in Vienna have been canceled due to a potential security threat. Scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at the Ernst Happel Stadium, the events have raised safety concerns following recent developments.
On Wednesday, authorities apprehended two individuals suspected of planning Islamist attacks on large gatherings in the vicinity of the Austrian capital. Organizers released a statement confirming the cancellation, stating, “Due to confirmation by government officials of a planned terrorist attack at the Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three planned shows for everyone’s safety.”
The organizers assured fans that “all tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 working days.”
In a statement, Austria’s General Director for Public Security, Franz Ruf, revealed that a 19-year-old Austrian citizen was arrested in Ternitz, Lower Austria, on the same day. Another arrest occurred later in Vienna, though details about the second suspect remain undisclosed.
Ruf noted that the investigation suggests the suspects became radicalized through online platforms. He also mentioned that the arrested teenager pledged allegiance to ISIS in July.
A significant police operation took place in Ternitz, resulting in the evacuation of homes while searches were conducted at the suspect’s residence. Authorities have confirmed the discovery of chemical substances, which are currently being analyzed.
The head of police in Vienna, Gerhard Pürstl, highlighted the scale of the event, stating that approximately 65,000 attendees and 22,000 fans outside the venue were expected each day. Investigations into the threats are ongoing as authorities prioritize public safety.
