A private security firm owner in Austria has announced the formation of a vigilante force to patrol the streets of Villach, following the terror attack on Feb. 15 that left the city in shock.
The recent attack in the city, in which a 23-year-old Syrian asylum seeker fatally stabbed a 14-year-old boy and injured five others before being apprehended, has reignited fears over public safety and radicalization, and among those unwilling to stand idly by is Manfred Berger, a veteran of the security industry with 25 years of experience and owner of a private security firm in nearby Velden.
Determined to take action, Berger has announced the formation of a citizens’ vigilante patrol, which he claims will supplement police efforts in maintaining public safety.
In an interview with local news outlet 5 Minuten, Berger described his decision to act as the result of long-standing frustration over security issues across Europe.
“I have followed with horror how almost every month, a major attack occurs in Germany due to the colossal failure of politics. But the tragic events in Villach — where my own children live — were the final straw. I had to do something.”
His solution is a volunteer-run, self-organized security group tasked with patrolling the city, deterring crime, and alerting authorities when necessary.
“We will not replace the police, but we want to reinforce security in Villach,” Berger explained.
The group, according to Berger, will not carry firearms but will instead be equipped with radio communication devices and pepper spray. Volunteers will patrol the streets in recognizable uniforms.
“Wherever there is a problem, there is also a solution. Vigilante patrols have existed since the 19th century, working alongside authorities to protect the population,” Berger said.
While their powers are no greater than any other civilian, the group intends to step in when they witness a crime occurring, detaining suspects until law enforcement arrives.
Berger reports that his initiative has already attracted significant interest, with 10 to 12 volunteers signing up in the first few days. A Facebook page for the group has seen an influx of support, with people eager to join the effort.
“This is not for wannabe sheriffs,” he warned. Prospective members will be required to undergo a background check, an interview, and a selection process similar to professional security firms to ensure their suitability.
Berger is particularly interested in recruiting middle-aged volunteers, stating that people over 50 are “more morally consolidated and responsible.”
Initially, the vigilante force will focus its patrols in the city center during business hours, aiming to enhance security for local businesses. However, schools and drug hotspots have also been identified as priority areas.
“Drug trafficking in front of Villach’s schools is a major concern, and we will be watching those areas closely,” Berger stated.
“If we can establish 20 members in every city in Carinthia, that would be a great start,” he said, revealing plans to expand into neighboring towns before moving further afield.
However, funding remains a challenge. While members will work on a volunteer basis, expenses such as radio equipment, uniforms, pepper spray, and a headquarters still need to be covered. Berger is actively seeking sponsors to help finance the initiative.
Under Austrian law, private citizens do have the right to detain a suspect caught in the act of committing a crime, but only until police arrive. However, any excessive use of force or actions beyond this scope could result in legal consequences for the group.
The Austrian Ministry of the Interior has not yet commented on the vigilante formation.
Despite the potential legal pitfalls, Berger remains adamant in his belief that his initiative is necessary.
“If we can prevent even one attack in the next 10 years by being present, then we will have fulfilled our duty,” he added.
