Security alert for the festival: Police increase presence at Christmas markets!

Security alert for the festival: Police increase presence at Christmas markets!

In view of the increased threat of terrorism, the Austrian authorities are accelerating their security measures for Christmas and the New Year. In Vienna and other cities, the police are increasing their presence in front of churches and at Christmas markets to prevent possible attacks. These measures are a response to the current warnings from the Office for the Protection of the Constitution, which point to possible Islamist attacks on Christmas Eve COURIER reported. There is an increased risk situation during the holidays, especially after an incident in which a Finnish citizen was caught with a weapon in Vienna.

Intensive security precautions

The security forces in Vienna and other federal states have already begun increased surveillance. Technical security measures such as concrete blocks and barriers have been installed at Christmas markets to protect visitors. Police spokesmen say both undercover and uniformed officers are on duty to monitor suspicious activity oe24 reported. Authorities are in close coordination with German security forces in order to keep an eye on the threat situation, even if there is currently no direct connection to specific dangerous situations in Austria known.

Visitors to events and religious services are encouraged to allow extra time and carry photo ID as access controls may be put in place. Police emphasize that security measures include protecting not only Christmas markets, but also churches and other potential destinations to ensure general safety in Austria during the holidays.