Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated concerts in Vienna have been canceled following the arrests of two individuals suspected of planning terrorist attacks in the area. The concerts, part of her “Eras Tour,” were scheduled to take place at Vienna’s Ernst Happel Stadium.
A statement from Barracuda Music, the concert promoter, read: “With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone’s safety.” The announcement came after Austrian authorities detained two suspects, one of whom is believed to have planned Islamist terrorist attacks targeting Swift’s concerts.
The suspects, a 19-year-old with alleged ties to ISIS and another individual, were arrested in Ternitz and Vienna, respectively. According to Franz Ruf, Public Security Director of Austria’s Interior Ministry, authorities had been monitoring “preparatory actions” for a possible attack. Ruf stated that the 19-year-old suspect had pledged allegiance to ISIS, while the second suspect had become radicalized online.
Authorities also confiscated toxic chemical materials from one of the suspect’s residences, which are currently being assessed. The 19-year-old suspect had reportedly identified Swift’s concerts as potential targets for the attacks.
In response to the threat, security measures at Ernst Happel Stadium have been significantly increased. Authorities are conducting thorough entry checks and have urged concert-goers to remain vigilant. Despite the heightened security, the decision to cancel the concerts was made to ensure the safety of fans and staff.
Taylor Swift was set to perform in Vienna on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Fans are advised to stay updated through official channels for further information and instructions.
