Legislators called upon

Chief of Police: “Push ahead with the weapons ban!”

(Bild: krone.tv)

Vienna's Chief of Police Gerhard Pürstl is clear in the krone.tv interview in view of the current dangerous situation with numerous violent crimes and stabbings: "We are very present where there is a lot going on. With numerous priority actions, also across districts with service dogs, WEGA and the riot unit. We are there to contain the scene, prevent dangers and intervene if necessary."

Pürstl signals his agreement with the pending ban on weapons in public spaces: "This is about the fundamental question: why does anyone have to carry a weapon on the street, in public spaces? As Chief of Police, I clearly say no! And it's not just about weapons, but also about the issue of knives. The weapons ban is intended to counteract this." They don't want to ban snack knives or small Swiss Army knives, but it is unacceptable for everyone to walk around with knives and be armed and move around in public spaces. Pürstl: "I'm in favor of pushing ahead with the weapons ban, but of course it's up to the legislator."

Vienna's Chief of Police Gerhard Pürstl(Bild: krone.tv)

When checking the weapons ban, there will be focus campaigns and checks in places where it is known that the law is repeatedly broken. However, pointing out violations of the law is often the by-product of other official police activities. "But basically, it will be easier for the police if there is a general regulation that clearly states that only those who are authorized and permitted to carry weapons in public spaces are allowed to do so."

"Not difficult to implement"
If a ban on weapons in public spaces is implemented, the police do not need a long transition period to prepare for it. Pürstl: "It is not difficult to implement and can be understood by everyone."

"Not a no-go area in Vienna"
The police chief denies rumors that there are areas in Vienna where the police themselves would hesitate to deploy. Pürstl: "There is no no-go area in Vienna. The police go wherever they are called, go wherever they are needed. We are there to prevent crimes against life and limb and not to hide."

Watch the whole interview in the video above!