“No second Linz” – that is the order from the police in the run-up to the Halloween celebrations next Tuesday.
Following serious riots during last year’s Halloween celebrations in Linz, Vienna and other metropolitan areas, local aid organizations have been looking forward to this year’s “Night of Terror” for several weeks.
But thanks to careful analysis and the currently increased terror warning, we think we are well prepared for tonight’s delicate scenario: “We have made intensive national preparations for the coming Halloween night and are prepared. In recent days, numerous operational meetings have taken place between the state police directorates and the federal police directorate, as well as with the Office for the Protection of the Constitution,” emphasizes Minister of the Interior Gerhard Karner (ÖVP).
Minor property damage targeted
Due to the circumstances in which countless refugees and asylum seekers have expressed their dissatisfaction in 2022, the Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum is also ‘ready for arms’.
It is emphasized that even minor damage to property or throwing fireworks should be punished with “severe severity”. Special forces, such as the Cobra task force, the standby units, the rapid intervention groups, the WEGA in Vienna, as well as assistance dog units, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the immigration police were alerted. The atmosphere is tense.
When does bullshit become a crime?
Trick or treating – the latter can often result in a criminal offense. Because what revelers see as a funny Halloween prank, in some cases falls under property damage: making graffiti and throwing things at houses, setting fire to garbage cans or blowing up mailboxes. This carries a prison sentence of up to six months and in serious cases even two years. In addition, there is civil law compensation, which can also be claimed from criminal minors under the age of 14.
Imprisonment for threatening
Even the mere threat of “dirty” can get you in trouble with the law. Anyone who demands the release of sweets by threatening violence commits the crime of coercion, punishable by up to one year in prison.
But what is allowed: disguises, no matter how scary they are, are not covered by the mask ban. Weapons alone are not considered costumes for Halloween. Anyone carrying one or even offering one can be prosecuted and punished under the Weapons Act.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
