This year, armed police patrols between the mulled wine stalls and posts are once again part of the pre-Christmas scene at the Christmas markets. The threat of terrorism is there, they say.
On December 19, 2016, a truck crashed directly into the Christmas market on Breitscheidplatz in Berlin. The result: 13 dead, 67 injured, some seriously – and for many a sense of insecurity that has remained ever since. A 17-year-old was recently arrested for allegedly planning a similar attack on a market in northern Germany.
The police (and not only) are aware that Austria is not an island of the blessed in this respect. A knife attacker at Vienna’s main station got cold feet at the last minute and an attack on a Taylor Swift concert in the summer was thwarted.
Terror alert level 2 applies to the Christmas markets
As every year, the Home Office says there will be an “increased and visible” presence during Advent this year. According to Minister Gerhard Karner, the goal is “a safe Advent for everyone”. One reason why special units “with appropriate and visible weapons” patrol between gingerbread and mulled wine stalls. Although there is currently no concrete evidence that Advent attacks are being planned, the threat situation (unchanged since October 2023) remains high and is at the second highest level of terror alert.
There will be cooperation with organizers; the cooperation must also bear fruit in other areas. It points out organized criminals who commit pickpocketing and theft in the crowd. By deliberately spilling drinks or showing flyers, the crooks want to take advantage of the victims’ inattention. And give yourself an illegal pre-Christmas gift…
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.
