https://www.heute.at/s/hohe-terrorgefahr-karner-erhoeht-polizeipraesenz-120027238
According to Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, the terrorist threat in Austria remains a great severe. Therefore, more police are being used on Easter days. Easter markets and Easter fairs in particular are to be monitored more strongly by the police.
In the coming days there will be a larger bid for officials in uniform and civilian, as the office of the ÖVP interior minister on Saturday annussed. However, there are currently no indications of a specific hazard.
"High" risk for terrorism and extremism
The risk level in terms of Islamist extremism and terrorism is therefore continuing to be "high" by the Directorate of State Security and Intelligence. This is the second highest stage. Although "at the time there are no indications of a concrete endangerment," Easter celebrations and Easter markets are "symbols of a high Christian festival combined with personal collections in public space."The Federal Police Directorate has now ordered special protective measures "to ensure a safe procedure for all participants in the best possible way," it says. This also applies to the Jewish Passover from 22 to 30. April.
"The police work around the clock for the safety of Austrians and is also required at Easter. Everything is done to ensure the best possible protection for Easter markets and Easter celebrations," assured Minister of the Interior Karner.
Due to attack plans on Vienna's city centre, the police had already increased the security measures shortly before Christmas and warned them against schedules for attacks on Christmas markets and church services. During the Christmas holidays, St. Stephen's Cathedral was guarded by elite policemen.
