The Vienna State Police confirmed that the suspects, both Austrian citizens, include a 19-year-old who was detained for plotting an attack during one of Taylor Swift’s performances this weekend.
Details about the specific nature of the intended attack are still unclear. However, a bomb squad discovered chemical substances during a raid on the 19-year-old’s home, which has raised concerns about the potential for creating an explosive device.
Authorities are currently investigating the materials to determine if they could have been used to build a bomb.
Law enforcement officials are in contact with the concert organizers, who will likely update Taylor Swift’s team on the situation.
With the concerts expected to attract nearly 85,000 fans each day, security measures are being heightened, and the Vienna Secret Police will be on high alert to ensure safety.
Franz Ruf, Director-General for Public Safety, stated that the suspects had self-radicalized online, with the 19-year-old reportedly pledging allegiance to the Islamic State.
The names of the suspects have not yet been released.
This thwarted attack follows a recent violent incident involving Taylor Swift’s fans, where a 17-year-old was arrested in the UK after a massacre at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop.
