(VOVworld) – Austrian Ministry of the Interior has called on the people to accelerate the fight against terrorism by supporting the police in the implementation of anti-terrorist measures.

A policewoman patrols over a Christmas market in Salzburg on December 20, 2016 (Photo: Getty Images)

On Thursday, Wolfgang Sobotka, the Austrian Interior Minister, said fighting terrorism is a long-term task that requires the joint effort by the security force and the people.

The same day, Austrian police arrested 14 people on suspicion of belonging to the militant group Islamic State following raids in Vienna and the southern city of Graz, Interior Minister Wolfgang Sobotka told a news conference.

Police in Vienna have been on heightened alert since Friday’s arrest and have increased patrols at transport hubs and other busy public places.