Europe faces the threat of terrorism ahead of the new year.

(Baonghean.vn) - On December 26, Vienna police in Austria announced that a "close" intelligence agency had warned European capitals of a high risk of terrorist attacks during the New Year's celebrations, prompting police across the continent to increase security measures.

Austrian police officers on duty in western Vienna (Photo: Reuters)

In a statement, Austrian police emphasized: "Several names of potential terrorist attackers have been mentioned; we have conducted checks but so far have had no concrete results… In the days leading up to Christmas, a warning was sent by a close intelligence agency to several European capitals, stating that an attack involving explosives or a shooting could occur between Christmas and New Year in crowded areas."

The country's police have also urged citizens to be more vigilant and knowledgeable about current security issues. "We should increase surveillance in crowded places, especially at event venues or transportation hubs. At the same time, we must check the identities of suspicious individuals and identify those who may be carrying explosives in their bags or backpacks," Reuters quoted Vienna police as saying.

A spokesperson for the German Interior Ministry said the country does not comment on specific circumstances for a number of reasons, but affirmed that: "Germany has reviewed and adjusted the necessary security measures following the terrorist attacks in Paris."

Phuong Thao

(According to Reuters)