Gang war

Large-scale police operation at Yppenplatz in Ottakring

Securing evidence at the Yppenplatz crime scene in Ottakring

(Bild: APA/Alex Halada)

Another gang war kept Vienna on tenterhooks. On Sunday evening, there was a large-scale police operation at Yppenplatz in Ottakring. Two men (20 and 21 years old) were seriously injured by gunshots.

A huge contingent of police and emergency services caused a stir at Yppenplatz, where the pubs were well frequented due to the European Championship final. Witnesses reported shots being fired and helicopters circled over the square. Two people suffered serious gunshot wounds after an argument between several men, but according to the police their lives are not in danger. The suspects who fired the shots fled the scene. Among other things, drugs were seized at the scene. 

After emergency medical treatment by the Vienna Professional Rescue Service, the two injured men were taken to hospital. The background to the altercation is still unclear. The State Office of Criminal Investigation has taken over the investigation. 

The area was cordoned off by the police.

(Bild: APA/Sandera Walder)

Despite the police operation, the atmosphere among the guests was calm. The view of the crime scene was obscured by emergency vehicles.

More police required for Ottakring
It was only thanks to the rapid intervention of the police that worse could possibly have been prevented. Nevertheless, the current incident does not necessarily come as a surprise to many. It was only on Saturday that the district leaders of Ottakring and Hernals pointed out in the "Krone" newspaper that the Ottakring municipal police force was dramatically understaffed.

According to a response to an inquiry from the Ministry of the Interior, only 198 of the 269 posts are filled with full-time staff. As a result, the average amount of overtime to be worked per officer has risen massively in recent years.

I am shocked, saddened and angry about the events at Yppenplatz. All residents and businesses have a right to safety, Yppenplatz is a place for everyone! As a district, we will not accept for a second if this safety cannot be guaranteed.

Ottakrings Bezirksvorsteherin Stefanie Lamp (SPÖ)

Bild: Sandra Oblak

Police in Ottakring understaffed
Ottakring's district leader Sefanie Lamp (SPÖ): "I am shocked, saddened and angry about the events on Yppenplatz. All residents and businesses have a right to safety, Yppenplatz is a place for everyone! As a district, we will not accept for a second if this safety cannot be guaranteed. We therefore urgently need the support of those responsible at federal level. I would like to sincerely thank the police for their dedicated and swift action and excellent cooperation."