Vienna: Migrant Teen Gang Accused of Brutal Rape, Sex Slavery and Arson Against School

A shocking incident in Vienna has come to light, where a group of seven teenagers, aged between 14 and 17—mainly of migrant background from Iraq, Romania, and Afghanistan—allegedly blackmailed, repeatedly sexually assaulted, and enslaved a 28-year-old schoolteacher, before setting her apartment ablaze. Authorities report that the assaults began in April 2024 after the teacher engaged in a relationship with a 17-year-old former student. Upon learning of this, the student’s friends allegedly began visiting the teacher’s home regularly, escalating their abuse.Investigators say the gang used blackmail to gain access to the woman’s apartment, which they then used to store drugs, and repeatedly extorted money from her for food, taxis, and tobacco. According to the teacher, the teens not only subjected her to physical violence and sexual abuse, but also filmed these acts to further their blackmail scheme. The teacher, fearing for her job and safety, did not initially report the crimes.In September 2024, the teacher reportedly fell seriously ill due to ongoing trauma. By November, police say the gang filmed at least one assault on the apartment rooftop. The group also committed theft and arson, burning down her home after breaking in while she was away. The accused are currently on trial in Vienna for aggravated extortion, sexual abuse, drug trafficking, and arson. Police found DNA evidence and personal items from the crime scene linked to the suspects. Prosecutors allege the group used coercion and intimidation, filming further acts of violence including animal cruelty, to terrorize the victim.The case has shocked Austria and fueled discussions on migrant youth crime, safety, and justice for victims