Vienna, Austria – In a dramatic turn of events, Austrian authorities arrested two men on Wednesday (Aug. 7) in connection with alleged plans to carry out attacks at major events in Vienna, including Taylor Swift's much-anticipated concerts at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion.

One of the suspects reportedly pledged allegiance to ISIS, revealed Vienna State Police Director Franz Ruf and Police Chief Gerhard Purstl during a tense news conference. The officials detailed that both suspects had become radicalized online and had meticulously planned their attack.

The 19-year-old's arrest was particularly alarming. When he was taken into custody, a bomb squad discovered chemical substances at his residence. Investigators are now working around the clock to determine if these chemicals were intended for bomb-making.

Austria's elite Cobra unit, akin to the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team, played a crucial role in these high-stakes arrests. Quick action was crucial in preventing what could have been a devastating attack, especially with Swift's concerts drawing huge crowds this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

Initally authorities confirmed no plans to cancel the concerts. "The concrete danger has been minimized," a police official assured the public. To ensure the safety of concertgoers, security measures will be significantly increased, including heavy weapons teams, K-9 units, bomb squads, and tactical vehicles. Fans are advised to brace for delays as extensive visitor and vehicle checks will be conducted.

Franz Ruf, Austrian Director General for Public Safety, emphasized the importance of their proactive measures.

"The suspected perpetrator was focused on the Taylor Swift concerts. Preparatory actions were detected," said Ruf. A concrete threat has been averted," he added. 

He noted that the authorities are still investigating to identify any other potential accomplices.

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But now Swifties in Vienna will have to wait a bit longer for her highly anticipated shows. Her three concerts scheduled from August 8 to 10 have been canceled, due to a serious security threat. 

According to Barracuda Music, the promoter for Swift's Austrian tour, turned to social media (Aug. 7) to share the tough decision.

"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."

Swift's official website has also been updated to reflect the cancellations. Fans looking for refunds should check their point of purchase.

Photo Credit: @tstourtips_ on Instagram.