The alleged terror plot resulted in the cancellation of three Taylor Swift shows in Austria.
Third Suspect Detained
A third suspect with alleged ties to ISIS has been apprehended in connection with a terror plot that led to the cancellation of three Taylor Swift concerts in Austria. Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner announced that an 18-year-old Iraqi, who was allegedly in contact with the main suspect, was arrested on Thursday, Aug. 9, in Vienna, as reported by CNN, ABC, and the Associated Press.
Previous Arrests
Prior to this, two other suspects were detained. The main suspect, a 19-year-old, and a 17-year-old, were taken into custody on Tuesday, Aug. 7. Both suspects are Austrian nationals. Authorities have not disclosed the names of the suspects.
Allegations Against the Suspects
NBC News, the AP, and CNN reported that Austrian authorities believe the 19-year-old intended to carry out an attack using “explosives and knives” at Swift’s concert, aiming to “kill as many people as possible,” according to the AP.
The main suspect had “clearly radicalized in the direction of the Islamic State (IS),” Austrian authorities alleged at a previous news conference, as reported by NBC.
The 18-year-old arrested on Thursday was not directly linked to the plot but allegedly swore allegiance to the Islamic State, the AP reported. A 15-year-old was also questioned but not arrested.
Foreign Intelligence Tip-Off
CNN previously reported that Austrian authorities were alerted to the alleged plot by a foreign intelligence agency, with a source revealing that the U.S. provided the critical tip.
Concerts Canceled for Safety
“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 show’s promoter posted on Instagram.
Details of the Terror Plot
Austrian officials have disclosed more details about the plot that canceled Taylor Swift’s three planned concerts in Vienna. Omar Haijawi-Pirchner, head of Austria’s Directorate of State Security and Intelligence, revealed in a news conference that the 19-year-old suspect admitted he intended “to carry out an attack” using explosives and knives at Swift’s concert, as reported by NBC News, CNN, and Le Monde.
Targeted Attack at Concert
The suspect’s goal was to “kill himself and a large number of people during the concert,” according to Le Monde. The Grammy winner’s concerts were scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Investigators found hydrogen peroxide, detonators, detonator cables, and homemade explosives in the man’s apartment.
Radicalization and Arrests
Officials confirmed that the 19-year-old was “clearly radicalized in the direction of the Islamic State (IS),” adding that large concerts are often targeted by Islamist attacks. Two other suspects, who were in contact with individuals aware of the plan, were also detained. This included a 17-year-old employed by a facility management company servicing the concert venue and a 15-year-old detained near the stadium.
International Intelligence and Prevention
Interior Minister Gerhard Karner credited a foreign intelligence agency with tipping off Austrian officials, with CNN reporting that U.S. agencies were responsible. “The situation was serious, but we can also say: A tragedy was prevented,” Karner stated.
Impact on Swift’s Concerts
Following the arrests and the thwarted plot, Taylor Swift canceled all three of her Vienna shows. A promoter post shared on the official Taylor Nation Instagram account stated that the concerts were canceled for “safety” reasons. Fans who purchased tickets were promised automatic refunds within 10 business days.
Swift’s Reaction
Sources revealed that Taylor Swift was “devastated” by the cancellations. A source told The Mirror that Swift was heartbroken for her fans who had waited years to see her perform. However, the potential risk of a terror attack left her with no choice but to prioritize safety.
Support from Travis Kelce
Swift’s boyfriend, Travis Kelce, offered comfort over the phone, considering flying to Austria to be with her. However, Swift decided to focus on her upcoming London concerts.
Kelce was reportedly relieved by the decision to cancel the Vienna shows, as it was the safest choice in the given circumstances.
Conclusion
The decision to cancel the concerts came after the arrest of two male suspects, aged 17 and 19, who were allegedly planning to attack concertgoers using knives and explosives. Both suspects were reportedly inspired by ISIS and al Qaeda, highlighting the persistent threat of extremist attacks on large public gatherings.
