Several killed, many wounded in Vienna attack
- 03 Nov 2020
Gulf Today Report
Several people were killed and scores wounded in what is believed to be a terror attack in Vienna on Monday evening.
Austrian Interior Minister Karl Nehammer said, “Several dead in Vienna attack.”
He also said at least one attacker is on the run.
Men with assault rifles opened fire at six locations on random people at 8pm in the Austrian capital.
Nehammer said its was believed that the terrorist was targeting the central synagogue.
What we know so far about the Vienna terror attack
- 8pm: Several shots fired, beginning at Seitenstettengasse
- Several suspects armed with rifles
- Six different shooting locations
- Several killed, scores injured
- 1 suspect shot and killed by police officers
A large-scale police operation is underway in Vienna since the attack took place.
There are injured and probably people killed in the Vienna shooting, Interior Minister Nehammer said.
Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz described what had happened as "a repulsive terrorist attack" and said the army would protect sites in the capital so the police could focus on anti-terror operations.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned the attack.
He said, “I am deeply shocked by the terrible attacks in Vienna tonight. The UK’s thoughts are with the people of Austria - we stand united with you against terror.”
German politician and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen said on Twitter, “I am shocked and saddened by the brutal attack that took place in Vienna. My thoughts are with the families of the victims and the Austrian people.
“Europe stands in full solidarity with Austria. We are stronger than hatred and terror.”
The police have also blocked a street near Schwedenplatz square after the shooting.
A witness said he saw “a person running with a machine gun and he was firing brutally.”
Another witness reported that "no less than fifty bullets" were fired.
Several witnesses saw heavily armed police combing the location for the suspect.
Local media said armed police arrived at the first district near the state opera in central Vienna.
Police have urged residents to keep away from all public places or public transport.
The police said one attacker was shot dead and another is on the run.
An eyewitness said a police officer was seriously injured.
Local television reported several shots were fired shortly after 8 pm.A video posted on Twitter showed tourists and residents holding up in a corner of a street.
Vienna police tweeted that officers were out in force.
Vienna Police said on Twitter, “There is a larger police operation going on in the 1st district of Vienna (Inner City area). Officers are at the.
“There are several injured people. Please avoid all public places in the city.”
The police also said the exact circumstances of the incident were still being determined.
On the other hand, the Saudi Embassy in Austria urged its citizens in Vienna to exercise caution. They have been told to stay indoors and avoid using public transport.