Many thanks to Gary Fouse for translating this article from Heute:

At Easter: “High” terror danger — Karner increases police presence

Due to the danger of terrorism, Easter celebrations will be monitored by more police. Reportedly no indication of concrete dangers.

March 23, 2024

The danger of terrorism remains high in Austria, according to Interior Minister Gerhard Karner. Therefore, during the days of Easter, more police will be deployed. In particular, the Easter markets and Easter masses will have increased police monitoring.

There will likely be a larger contingent of police in uniform and plainclothes in the coming days, the Interior Minister reported on Saturday. However, there are currently no indications of a concrete danger.

“High” threat level for terrorism and extremism

The risk level in relation to Islamist extremism and terrorism continues to be rated as “high” by the State Security and Intelligence Service. This is the second-highest level. Although “to date, there is no indication of a concrete danger,” Easter celebrations and Easter markets are “symbols of a high Christian festival combined with gatherings of people in public spaces.”

The Federal Police Directorate has ordered special protective measures, “in order to ensure as safe a process as possible for participants”, they state. This also applies to the Jewish Passover festival from 22-30 April.

“The police work around the clock for the safety of Austrians, and this is also required at Easter. Everything will be done there to ensure the safety of Easter markets and Easter celebrations as best as possible,” Interior Minister Karner assured.

Due to attack plots against the Vienna city center, the police had already increased security measures shortly before Christmas and warned of attack plots against Christmas markets and worship services. During the Christmas holidays, St. Stephen’s Cathedral was guarded by elite police.