Major Heist in Gelsenkirchen: Millions Stolen from Bank Vault During Holidays
In a striking heist that makes headlines, thieves targeted a bank vault in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, during the bustling Christmas holidays, absconding with valuables thought to be worth upwards of $105 million. This audacious crime raises questions about security and safety during one of the most festive times of the year.
The Heist Unfolds
Authorities reported that the criminals utilized a large drill to penetrate a thick concrete wall of the Sparkasse bank located in North Rhine-Westphalia. Gaining access through a nearby parking garage, they made their way into the underground vault area and breached over 3,000 safe deposit boxes.
Estimated Value of Stolen Goods
Thomas Nowaczyk, a spokesperson for the police, stated that the estimated worth of the stolen items could fluctuate between 10 to 90 million euros (approximately $11.7 million to $105.7 million). The scale of this theft places it among the most significant robberies in German history.
Details of the Crime
The robbery appears to have occurred while the bank was closed for extended Christmas celebrations, leading investigators to suspect that the thieves may have stayed inside the building for several days. They likely capitalized on the long holiday weekend to execute their plan without being detected.
The crime was revealed early on Monday morning when a fire alarm triggered, prompting emergency services to investigate. Upon arrival, they discovered a gaping hole that led into the vault.
Witness Accounts and Security Footage
Eyewitnesses reported seeing multiple individuals carrying large bags through the parking garage during the night between Saturday and Sunday. Security footage later confirmed that a black Audi RS 6 departed the garage in the early hours of Monday, containing masked accomplices. The vehicle was found to have a license plate linked to a car stolen over 200 kilometers away in Hanover.
A Sophisticated Operation
A police representative noted the sophistication of the operation, likening it to a scene inspired by Hollywood films such as “Ocean’s Eleven.” He remarked, “This operation was executed with a high degree of professionalism,” highlighting the extensive foreknowledge or effort that must have gone into planning it.
Aftermath and Responses
On Tuesday, numerous customers gathered outside the Sparkasse bank, seeking answers regarding their investments. The branch is currently closed due to security concerns, with threats made against the staff further complicating the situation.
One customer, expressing frustration, lamented, “I couldn’t sleep last night. We’re not receiving any information.” He had relied on his safe deposit box for 25 years for his retirement savings.
Police maintained a presence at the site to monitor the area, with Nowaczyk assuring the public that “the situation has calmed down considerably.” Meanwhile, the bank established a hotline to assist affected customers and pledged to keep them updated on compensation claims as they work with insurers. “We are shocked,” stated bank spokesperson Frank Krallmann, emphasizing their commitment to support customers throughout this distressing time.
As investigations continue, police are actively pursuing leads to apprehend the suspects, who remain at large.
Conclusion
This high-profile robbery not only impacts the victims financially but also raises broader concerns about security measures in banks, particularly during holidays when many are at risk.
Key Takeaways
- Thieves executed a massive heist, stealing valuables worth potentially up to $105 million from a Gelsenkirchen bank.
- The break-in involved sophisticated drilling through a concrete wall, allowing access to 3,000 safe deposit boxes.
- Police believe the theft occurred over the extended Christmas weekend, with the operation being professionally planned.
- Emergency responders only discovered the crime due to a fire alarm activated hours after the theft.