A major EU city cancels Taylor Swift concerts over fears of an ISIS attack. Learn more about the security concerns leading to this decision.
Two arrests related to terrorism led to the cancellation of three events in Vienna, Austria.
Due to two suspects being arrested for allegedly planning terrorist attacks on her upcoming concerts in Vienna, Austria, US pop sensation Taylor Swift has canceled three scheduled performances.
As part of her Eras Tour in Europe, Swift was expected to stage performances at Vienna’s Ernst Happel Stadium on August 8, 9 and 10. Tickets for the venues across the continent have been sold out weeks ahead of time.
Barracuda Music announced on Instagram that due to government officials’ confirmation of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, the scheduled three shows have been canceled for the safety of everyone. They further stated that all tickets will be automatically refunded within 10 business days.
of Austria for alleged ties to the terrorist group. A 19-year-old, who had declared his loyalty to Islamic State (commonly referred as ISIS or IS), was apprehended by Austrian law enforcement in Ternitz located south of Vienna. Subsequently, another individual suspected of links with the extremist organization was detained in the capital city of Austria.
Reportedly, the suspects appear to have been radicalized through online means and were planning an attack in Vienna. Franz Ruf, who serves as the director-general for public safety within Austria’s Ministry of Interior informed journalists that they had expressed a special interest in targeting Swift’s concerts.
Vienna police chief Gerhard Purst stated that the organizers anticipated an audience of 65,000 per concert and around 10,000 to 15,000 supporters outside the arena. He added that increasing security measures was necessary due to potential risks.
According to the authorities, a potential explosive device was being assembled by an individual who is believed to be 19 years old. The substances detected in his residence are under examination at present. Disclosure of the identities of those involved has not been released yet.
In March 2023, Swift commenced the Eras Tour with a goal of presenting her iconic hits from 17 years in over five continents and performing at least 152 concerts. The talented young artist who is currently aged thirty-four anticipates earning about $2 billion concerning proceeds generated from ticket sales when she concludes the tour by December that same year.
