Authorities have discovered a number of alarming items from the residence of a man who was arrested under suspicion of planning an attack on a Taylor Swift concert.
Officials reported that the 19-year-old suspect had undertaken ‘concrete preparatory actions’ for the attack.
This suspect, an Austrian citizen, had previously posted an ‘oath of allegiance’ to the terrorist group ISIS on an online account.
Additionally, a 17-year-old suspect has been detained in relation to the plot.
Frankz Ruf, the general director for public security in Austria, informed the broadcaster ORF that Austrian authorities are identifying the 19-year-old as the principal suspect in their investigations.
Mr. Ruf stated: “According to the current status of the investigation, the two suspects became radicalised via the internet.”
Searches were conducted at the older suspect’s residence, revealing what authorities believe to be evidence of ‘concrete preparatory actions’.
Officers found a number of unsettling items at the address.
Among these items were various chemicals and ‘technical devices’ found at the location.
Authorities are now proceeding with investigations into the plots and suspect the two individuals might have been part of a small group that is under scrutiny.
Taylor Swift was scheduled to perform at the Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
However, organizers decided to cancel the performances due to increasing concerns about the safety of attendees amid the threat of an attack.
In a post on Instagram, the organizers wrote: “With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone’s safety.
“All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 days.”
Swift is currently on her Eras Tour, with the concerts in Vienna expected to draw around 65,000 people per show.
Police have also noted that an additional 10,000 to 15,000 fans were expected to gather outside the arena.
Austrian Karl Nehammer posted on Twitter that, while the cancellations would be a ‘bitter disappointment’ for fans, the situation was ‘very serious’.
Nehammer added: “Thanks to the intensive cooperation of our police and [security agencies] with foreign services, the threat was recognized early, combated and a tragedy prevented.”
Investigations into the alleged plot are ongoing.
Taylor Swift has yet to comment publicly on the cancellations.