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In a chilling development, a 19-year-old suspected of plotting an ISIS-inspired terror attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna has been pictured posing with zombie knives. The suspect, named Beran A., confessed to planning a horrific attack aimed at fans outside the Ernst Happel Stadium, involving knives, machetes, and a “dirty bomb.
Authorities foiled the terror plot just a day before Swift’s first concert of the week, following intelligence shared by US agencies with Europol and Austrian police.
Beran A., an Austrian national, had planned to drive a car into the crowd of around 20,000 fans and launch further attacks with weapons. He admitted to officials his intent to “kill as many people as possible” and then take his own life.
During a raid on his home in Ternitz, south of Vienna, police in hazmat suits discovered various bomb-making materials, ISIS propaganda, and weapons. Neighbours described Beran A. as a “harmless boy next door” who recently underwent a drastic change after pledging allegiance to ISIS.
Foiled Attack on Taylor Swift Concert
The suspect’s two accomplices, aged 17 and 15, were also arrested. The trio allegedly planned to use knives and machetes in the attack. The 17-year-old, an Austrian national with Turkish-Croatian roots, had been seen acting suspiciously near the stadium, where he recently secured a job. The 15-year-old, also an Austrian national with Turkish heritage, was part of the plot but details of his role remain unclear.
Concerts Cancelled
Due to the imminent threat, concert organizers cancelled Taylor Swift’s scheduled shows on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Approximately 65,000 fans were expected at each show, with an additional 20,000 gathering outside the stadium.
Authorities Respond
Austrian security officials, including Omar Haijawi-Pirchner, head of the Directorate of State Security and Intelligence, and Franz Ruf, Austria’s Director General for Public Security, emphasized the seriousness of the plot. “A concrete threat has been averted,” Ruf stated.
Investigators believe the attack was inspired by ISIS but not directly coordinated by the group. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer praised the swift action that prevented a potential tragedy, though he acknowledged the disappointment of cancelling the concerts.
Background on ISIS
ISIS, also known as the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, is a terrorist organization known for its brutal tactics and public executions. It formed in 2004 and rose to prominence by exploiting instability in Iraq and Syria. Although significantly weakened by international military efforts, ISIS continues to inspire terrorist attacks globally.
The foiled plot underscores the ongoing threat posed by extremist ideologies and the importance of international intelligence cooperation in preventing terrorist attacks.
