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Organizers cancel Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna over fears of an attack
- Region:
- World
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The organizers of Taylor Swift's highly anticipated concerts in Vienna have canceled three shows scheduled for this week amid security concerns. The announcement came after Austrian authorities arrested two individuals linked to a potential attack on an event in the Vienna area, with Swift's concerts being a primary target.
Swift was set to perform at the Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday as part of her globally acclaimed Eras Tour. The event organizer, Barracuda Music, confirmed the cancellation through an Instagram post on Wednesday night, citing safety concerns for attendees as the reason for this difficult decision.
Authorities revealed that the main suspect, a 19-year-old Austrian, had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) group in recent weeks and had been planning an attack. This suspect was apprehended in Ternitz, located south of Vienna, while a second individual was arrested in the Austrian capital.
Franz Ruf, the public security director at Austria's interior ministry, stated that the police were aware of the suspect's preparatory actions and his focus on the Taylor Swift concerts. Ruf emphasized the necessity of the arrests to prevent any potential attack and ensure public safety.
The cancellation has disappointed fans who were eager to see Swift's performance, but organizers and authorities are prioritizing the safety of concert-goers and the general public. Swift's Eras Tour, which has been a significant success worldwide, will continue with upcoming performances in other locations.