Robbers executed a sophisticated heist at a Sparkasse bank branch in Gelsenkirchen, western Germany, during the Christmas holiday, managing to steal cash, gold, and jewellery valued at up to 5 million. According to local authorities, the crime occurred when many in the community were enjoying the festive season, with the bank announcing the intrusion only after the holiday.
The police reported that the perpetrators utilized an industrial-sized drill to penetrate a reinforced concrete wall connected to an underground vault. Having gained entry from an adjacent parking garage, they accessed over 3,000 safe deposit boxes, indicating a highly organized and intricately planned operation. Authorities speculate that the thieves may have remained inside the bank for several days, capitalizing on the extended closure during the holiday break to carry out their acts undetected.
Thomas Nowaczyk, a police spokesperson, indicated that the robbery may be one of the largest in German history, with estimates of the stolen items ranging from €10 million to €90 million (approximately .7 million to 5.7 million). The audacity of the crime has drawn comparisons to cinematic heists, with a police spokesman likening it to a scene from “Ocean’s Eleven.” Such a description underscores the elaborate nature of the operation, suggesting that significant preparation and expertise were involved in its execution.
The theft came to light early Monday morning when a fire alarm was triggered, prompting emergency responders to discover the breach into the vault. Witnesses reported seeing individuals transporting large bags through the parking structure in the early hours, further complicating the investigation. Security camera footage captured a black Audi RS 6 leaving the scene, later identified as a stolen vehicle from a city over 200 kilometers away.
The insured value of the average deposit box exceeded €10,000 (,700), but many customers reported that the actual contents far surpassed those amounts. In the aftermath of the heist, hundreds of anxious bank customers gathered outside the Sparkasse branch, seeking information and expressing concern, as the bank remained closed due to security threats against staff members.
The Sparkasse bank has established a hotline for affected customers and is actively working with insurers to facilitate compensation claims. A bank spokesperson expressed their shock and stated their commitment to supporting customers during this challenging time, hoping for the swift apprehension of the perpetrators.
As investigations continue, the Gelsenkirchen police maintain a presence at the scene and emphasize their dedication to resolving the case, ensuring that the safety of the community remains a top priority.
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