Vienna Police Warn of Acid Used in Burglaries

Vienna police are investigating a series of burglaries where suspects use corrosive nitric acid to bypass apartment door locks.

The Vienna State Criminal Police Office is investigating a series of residential burglaries involving the use of corrosive acid to gain entry. Between February and April 2026, eight cases were reported in Landstraße, Wieden, Favoriten, and Meidling, followed by two incidents in Margareten and Döbling in June. Most recently, five additional burglaries occurred in Favoriten between July 17 and July 22. Authorities warn that liquid found on door locks may be nitric acid, which is harmful to the skin, respiratory tract, and mucous membranes. If the liquid contacts skin, the police advise neutralizing it with clear water without soap or additives. Citizens who discover damage or liquid on their locks should immediately call the emergency number 133.