By Austrian authorities have revealed that two suspects arrested in connection with a foiled attack on Taylor Swift’s Vienna concerts were inspired by the Islamic State group and al-Qaida. The plot, which led to the cancellation of three sold-out shows, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and raised concerns about concert security worldwide.
The main suspect, a 19-year-old Austrian with North Macedonian roots, confessed to planning to “kill as many people as possible outside the concert venue.” Investigators found bomb-making materials at his home, along with evidence of radicalization towards the Islamic State. The second suspect, a 17-year-old Austrian with Turkish and Croatian roots, was recently employed by a company providing services at the concert venue.
The plot targeted the area outside Vienna’s Ernst Happel Stadium, where up to 30,000 onlookers were expected. Both suspects were arrested on Tuesday, with the main suspect having uploaded an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State leader in July. The foiled attack was planned for Thursday or Friday, coinciding with Swift’s scheduled performances. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer defended the decision to cancel the concerts, citing safety concerns.
The incident has prompted discussions about concert security across Europe. London Mayor Sadiq Khan reassured fans that Swift’s upcoming Wembley Stadium shows would proceed with heightened security measures, drawing lessons from the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing at an Ariana Grande concert.
Taylor Swift, who has previously expressed concerns about concert safety, has not publicly commented on the foiled plot. The superstar told Elle magazine in 2019 that her biggest fear was large-scale violence at her concerts, highlighting the challenges of ensuring fan safety during global tours.
Terrorism expert Magnus Ranstorp emphasized that any mass public event now constitutes a potential threat, noting that popular artists like Swift are likely targets for those seeking to create fear and destruction.
The thwarted attack has left thousands of fans disappointed, with many having invested significantly in travel and accommodation for the Vienna shows. Concert organizer Barracuda Music has promised full refunds, while Austrian rail operator OeBB has offered to reimburse unused train tickets.
AP
