The Interior Minister said this on Tuesday at the symposium for the Day of Crime Victims in Vienna. Speaking to journalists, the Interior Minister suggested that it would likely be a provision of constitutional rank.

Karner: Mass Controls Likely as Constitutional Provision

"We currently have the ability to conduct checks in asylum accommodations, and we do so. If people live in private accommodations, we do not have this ability," said Karner. It is about checking "certain target groups" that have been noticed in connection with radicalization. The Interior Minister mentioned Afghan and Syrian citizens in this context. This is "not a simple solution and not a quick solution."

Karner suggested that a change in this area would likely entail a constitutional amendment. A two-thirds majority in parliament would be required for this. The corresponding amendments could be included in the Security Police Act or the Aliens Police Act. The Interior Minister referred to the considerations that the legal section has to make in this context.

Karner stated that there are already random mass controls. "We do this in the area of traffic safety. To prevent deaths."

Renewed Demand for Monitoring of Messenger Services

The Interior Minister also once again called for the monitoring of messenger services. "Of course, the democratic constitutional state and the constitution are our guiding principles," he said. A corresponding draft law is available and has already been under review. "Decades ago, letters were written and calls were made on landlines. That no longer exists today," Karner noted.

He also announced an acceleration in the recruitment of personnel in the field of digital investigations and wants to expedite the establishment of additional cyber training centers for investigators. Last but not least, the legal framework for undercover investigations in the digital realm should be improved so that investigators have more security and do not become offenders themselves.

Karner and Zadić Stunned by Attack in Villach

Karner, as well as Justice Minister Alma Zadić (Greens), remained stunned by the attack in Villach during the symposium. Both thanked the "Syrian man whose courageous actions prevented worse" (Zadić) and "the Syrian food delivery person whose courageous intervention likely prevented further deaths" (Karner). "It is our joint task to combat extremism and prevent such acts," said the Justice Minister. "We must not allow mobile phones and communication tools to become weapons," emphasized Zadić.

Karner added: "As a society and a resilient democracy, we must show unity and determination." Commentators are already speaking of powerlessness and fear of losing control. "We must not allow that."

(APA/Red)

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