Brother of missing Israelis in Vienna: "I just want to know that they are alive"

A four-year-old boy was kidnapped in Vienna on Friday afternoon and taken into a flat by a 72-year-old man, according to police reports. The suspect has refused to make a statement and is currently held in custody following an order from the Vienna prosecutor's office. Police spokesperson Markus Dittrich confirmed the arrest during an inquiry with APA on Sunday. Investigations continue, and the child is expected to be questioned in the coming days. The incident took place in the district of Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus. According to police, the boy had been playing with family members in the courtyard of a multi-family home before suddenly disappearing. Officers were alerted and began searching for him. A tip-off from another child led them to one of the staircases in the building, where they heard the boy’s voice coming from a flat. They managed to open the door and free the child, who had been inside for at least an hour, according to Dittrich. The boy was examined by authorities but could not yet be interviewed in detail due to his psychological condition. However, he told the police that the 72-year-old man had taken him against his will into his apartment after they met in the staircase. Further criminal acts, such as sexual abuse, could not be ruled out, Dittrich noted. Police arrived at the residence around 2:30 p.m. on Friday. Forces from the Fünfhaus city police command and the readiness unit of Vienna participated in the search for the child. Another child informed the officers that he had seen the missing four-year-old in one of the building’s staircases. From there, the officers heard the child’s voice coming from a flat. They managed to open the door and rescue the child, who had been inside for at least an hour, according to Dittrich. The boy was examined by authorities but could not yet be interviewed in detail due to his psychological condition. However, he told the police that the 72-year-old man had taken him against his will into his apartment after they met in the staircase. Further criminal acts, such as sexual abuse, could not be ruled out, Dittrich noted. The 72-year-old suspect was arrested and remained under detention on Saturday. His interrogation had not yet taken place. The ongoing investigations are being conducted by the Vienna State Criminal Office. The case has raised concerns among local residents and authorities, highlighting the need for vigilance in such situations. The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of child safety in urban areas. Local officials have emphasized the importance of community awareness and prompt reporting of suspicious activities. The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and protecting vulnerable individuals. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping and any potential additional offenses. The 72-year-old suspect is currently in custody and awaiting further questioning. The Vienna State Criminal Office is handling the investigation, and more information is expected to emerge as the case progresses. The boy is undergoing medical evaluation and psychological support to aid in his recovery.