Feb 23 • 14:36 UTC 🇸🇰 Slovakia Denník N

Threat on Telegram Concerned 19 Schools, Police Refuse to Disclose the Language Used

Slovak schools face new threats via Telegram, involving 19 institutions and prompting a security response from police.

Slovak schools are once again under threat following a series of bomb-related emails in 2024; this time, the threats have surfaced on the social media platform Telegram. Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok confirmed that these specific threats pertain to 19 primary and secondary schools, primarily concentrated in Bratislava and its surroundings, with additional threats noted in Trnava and Prešov regions. Despite the low-risk assessment by security agencies, authorities deployed 65 police patrols to monitor the situation outside these schools.

Police President Jana Maškarová discussed the seriousness of the threats during a press conference, explaining that they maintain a perspective that any attack can occur, emphasizing the importance of ongoing vigilance. Despite the low-risk evaluation, the presence of significant police patrols reflects the heightened alertness and preparedness for any potential violent incidents involving students. The psychological impact on both students and parents is considerable, as threats like these can instill fear within the community.

The Interior Minister remarked on the state's commitment to child safety, labeling it a "red line" for the government. The incident is being investigated as a criminal act of spreading false information, which can carry a penalty of up to five years imprisonment. The case highlights the growing concern about safety in educational institutions in Slovakia, particularly given the recent history of violence surrounding schools, and raises questions about measures being taken to prevent such threats in the future.

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