After the series of attacks on the homeless in Vienna, Caritas started handing out whistles and pocket alarms. This is to deter potential criminals. “The street work needs to be expanded further, especially because of the current uncertainty,” Vienna Caritas director Klaus Schwertner said on Wednesday.
Street workers from the aid organization are out about three times a week to explain what happened, raise awareness and at least allay some of the fear, says Schwertner. He spoke of “unprecedented violence”.
“Unprecedented Violence”
There have been isolated cases of harassment or violence in recent years, “but this form is unique. There has never been anything like it in Vienna before, it is an unprecedented form of violence,” said Schwertner. “The violent incidents have led to great uncertainty among those affected. And not just among those who are acutely homeless, but among homeless people in general,” says Schwertner.
The shock is also deep for the employees of Caritas. One of the victims had been living on the street for years and was known to many employees. “There is great dismay and the realization that a rapid response is needed,” it said.
The police are looking for serial killers
Police are still looking for a suspected serial killer. In addition, the patrol service was sensitized to keep its eyes open, especially at night, in known places where there are homeless people. One of them is in close contact with the right healthcare institutions, says Barbara Gass, spokeswoman for the Viennese police. Schwertner also praised the cooperation with the police. Last month, two homeless people were killed by knife attacks and a third victim survived with serious injuries.
Source: Krone
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