Subhi Agrawal
A third suspect has been detained by Authorities in Vienna. The 18-year-old Iraqi national, is believed to be linked to the primary suspect. A 19-year-old Austrian with North Macedonian roots has been detained as part of an ongoing investigation by the Interior Ministry.
“Had Big Plans”
According to the authorities, The 19-year-old, who quit his job less than two weeks before the planned attack, has made a full confession in custody and said he “had big plans.”
The announcement has shocked many, as the concert, expected to draw around 20,000 “Swiftie” fans, was to be held at the iconic Ernst Happel Stadium. Amid rising security concerns the concerts which were planned for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, were suddenly canceled on late Wednesday.
Prevented a Tragedy in Vienna
The news led to the swift arrest of two other Austrian youths, aged 17 and 15, on Wednesday as the primary suspect, who had allegedly sworn allegiance to the extremist group Islamic State (IS), was reportedly plotting a deadly attack against the crowd. The 15-year-old has since been released and is considered as a witness, the Iraqi suspect’s involvement is still under investigation.
“Cooperation with foreign partners and services is essential and reciprocal. This made it possible to prevent a tragedy in Vienna,” Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said.
Assistance Of US Intelligence
The Austrian authorities, with the assistance of U.S. intelligence, are trying to solve the case, as Austrian laws limit the surveillance of instant messaging apps—the platform used by the suspects to communicate. The complexity of the situation underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in preventing such heinous acts.
Swift, who is set to perform in London next week, has not yet addressed the concern and concert cancellations. Meanwhile, British police have reassured that there is no evidence suggesting that the Vienna plot poses a threat to her upcoming show.
As the investigation continues with more property searches, the Austrian public remains uneasy, with deep concerns about the safety of large-scale events and the ongoing threat of extremism.
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