New horror in Villach: radicalization via Tikkok? Notes are condensed!

New horror in Villach: radicalization via Tikkok? Notes are condensed!

Ten weeks after the tragic terrorist attack in Villach, in which a 14-year-old boy was murdered and several young people were injured, there is new findings about the alleged perpetrator, the 23-year-old Syrer Ahmad G. according to [Exxpress.at] (https://exxpress.at/news/villach-attetaeter- new knowledge, after the first point of view),) that Ahmad G. was perceived as inconspicuous by his environment and that he has not yet been on the constitutional protection list.

He was classified as accountable, but investigators have now found documents that require a re -evaluation of his mental constitution. This includes notes, content of cell phones and written records that indicate drastic radicalization within a few months. Ahmad G. is said to have radicalized on Tikok and have influenced his environment in a dangerous way. The Ministry of the Interior and the police classified the incident as an Islamist attack, since Ahmad G. confessed to the deeds in the name of the "Islamic State" (IS) and an IS flag in his apartment was ensured, so reported oe24.at.

radicalization via digital media

The phenomenon of online radicalization that affected Ahmad G. has recently become increasingly examined. A publication of the Bonn International Center for Conflict Studies emphasizes that everyday areas of life and extremist activities are increasingly moving to digital space. Research shows that the Internet contributes to accelerating radicalization dynamics and promoting effective communication processes among extremists. Ahmad G. used his social media activities to follow extremist ideologies and to get in touch with radical influencers, which significantly increased its danger.

According to the authorities, Ahmad G. was not classified as a threat, which also increases the severity of the incident. He had no criminal records and was considered to be inconspicuous internationally. The use of a folding knife with a blade length of 10 cm with the stop underlines the violent intention behind his act. The first victim, the 14-year-old Alex, died at the crime scene, while several other people, including two 15-year-olds and a helpful cook, suffered serious injuries.

authority reactions and further investigations

The Klagenfurt public prosecutor now has the task of creating a complete picture of Ahmad G. and its environment. In the case of house searches, stressful materials, including Nazi propaganda, were ensured. Several acquaintances of the perpetrator in Carinthia are suspected and the investigation extends to abroad. Despite all these new findings, the authorities are currently sticking to the theory of an individual offender. The questions about Ahmad G. are to be clarified by a court psychiatrist.

The consequences and the skills of digital communication to rapid radicalization are terrifying. The insights from the literature show that unmoderned platforms and wide -ranging access to extremist content represent serious challenges for security authorities. The exchange between science, politics and security forces is essential to counteract the growing extremism.