Swifties can rest easy knowing that London's security measures for Taylor Swift's upcoming concerts are rock-solid, even as Vienna grapples with a thwarted terror plot.
- Aug 9, 2024
AceShowbiz - UK officials have confirmed that the recent terror threats before Taylor Swift's canceled shows in Vienna, Austria will not impact her upcoming performances in London. According to a spokesperson for London's Metropolitan Police, "There is nothing to indicate that the matters being investigated by the Austrian authorities will have an impact on upcoming events here in London," as reported by Reuters on August 8.
The statement continued, "The Met works closely with venue security teams and other partners to ensure there are appropriate security and policing plans in place. As always, we will continue to keep any new information under careful review."
Swift is currently scheduled to perform at London's Wembley Stadium over five sold-out nights from August 15 to 20.
Earlier reports from the Associated Press revealed that the main suspect in the Vienna case, a 19-year-old male, confessed to planning an attack aimed at "kill[ing] as many people as possible" outside Ernst Happel Stadium, where Swift was slated to perform from August 8 to 10.
Barracuda Music, the concert promoters in Austria, stated on August 7, "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. All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days."
The suspect reportedly quit his job and altered his appearance to align with Islamic State propaganda, despite his North Macedonian roots. Omar Haijawi-Pirchner, Austria's head of the Directorate of State Security and Intelligence, disclosed that the suspect intended to use knives or homemade explosives to attack fans, potentially placing over 195,000 Swifties at risk.
Authorities also found IS and al-Qaida materials in the home of a second suspect, a 17-year-old Austrian recently employed by a company providing services at the venue. Both suspects are currently in custody.
At the time of writing, Taylor Swift had not commented on the incident.
Fans who were eagerly awaiting the Vienna shows can take solace in the fact that the careful and coordinated efforts of authorities in London are ensuring the safety of the events. Despite the terror threats, the show will indeed go on for Swift's dedicated UK fans.
