2 civilians have been killed and 15 injured by unknown persons in Vienna, the capital of Austria.
The attackers targeted six different locations, including the city center. According to the Interior Minister, one of the attackers has been killed, but the other is still at large.
Security forces are conducting a search operation in the area and the government has announced closure of schools today. Interior Minister Karl Niehamer while talking to the local media said that ‘this incident of firing is a terrorist attack‘.
Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig said a woman died of her injuries in hospital, while a man died at the scene of the attack.
According to local media, 14 people are being treated in hospital and at least five are in critical condition. The shooting happened near the city’s central Schwedenplatz square.
Police have appealed to people to stay away from the area and not to use public transport.
Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz strongly condemned the Vienna attack and said the situation is under control. According to local media, the attack was carried out around 8 am local time and the attackers were armed with rifles.
Many countries including Great Britain, Germany, France and Turkey have strongly condemned the shooting incident in Vienna.
French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter that Europe must “not give up” on the attacks.
He said, “We the French share the shock and sorrow of the Austrian people who have suffered a blow this evening in the heart of their capital, Vienna.” After France, one of our friends has been attacked. This is Europe. Our enemies must know what they are up against.’
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**Interview with Dr. Eva Schmidt, Security Expert, on the Recent Attacks in Vienna**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Schmidt. We are deeply saddened by the recent incident in Vienna where two civilians lost their lives and 15 others were injured. Can you share your immediate thoughts on this tragic event?
**Dr. Schmidt**: Thank you for having me. This is a heartbreaking situation that has shocked not just Vienna, but the entire nation. The targeting of multiple locations in such a chaotic manner suggests a level of planning and coordination that raises serious concerns about security and public safety.
**Interviewer**: The attacks occurred across six different locations, including the city center. What does this suggest about the attackers’ motives?
**Dr. Schmidt**: The spread of the attacks indicates an intent to maximize panic and chaos. It’s often a tactic used to instill fear in the public and demonstrate a capability to strike in well-populated areas. The city center, being a high-traffic area, further highlights the desire to create a significant impact.
**Interviewer**: The Interior Minister mentioned that one of the attackers may have been identified. How crucial is this information in the investigation moving forward?
**Dr. Schmidt**: Identifying even one of the attackers is critical. It can help law enforcement piece together the larger network or ideology at play. Additionally, it may lead to further arrests and help prevent additional attacks. The more information they can gather, the better they can ensure the safety of the public.
**Interviewer**: What steps can the government take to enhance security in the wake of such events?
**Dr. Schmidt**: First and foremost, increasing the presence of law enforcement in vulnerable areas is essential. Public awareness campaigns about reporting suspicious activities can also empower citizens. Moreover, it’s crucial to address the root causes of violence through community outreach and support programs, ensuring that extremist ideologies do not take hold.
**Interviewer**: And what can the public do to stay safe during these uncertain times?
**Dr. Schmidt**: The public should remain vigilant while also being mindful not to panic. It’s important to stay informed through reliable news sources and to recognize the signs of suspicious behavior. Reporting anything unusual to the authorities can help maintain community safety.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Schmidt. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
**Dr. Schmidt**: Thank you. It is indeed a time for support and solidarity in the face of such tragic events.
