Thieves drilled into a German bank vault in Gelsenkirchen, stealing tens of millions of euros worth of property from safety deposit boxes. The break-in occurred at a Sparkasse bank branch during the quiet Christmas period, with police discovering the hole in the wall after a fire alarm went off on December 29.
Almost $105.7 Million Stolen
The perpetrators used a large drill to break through the vault’s basement wall, accessing several thousand safe deposit boxes. Estimates suggest the theft is worth between 10 and 90 million euros ($11.7 to 105.7 million).
Around 2,700 bank customers were affected by the theft, with many expressing anger and frustration outside the bank. “I couldn’t sleep last night. We’re getting no information,” one customer said, having used the safe for 25 years.
Witnesses reported seeing men carrying large bags in a nearby parking garage over the weekend. A black Audi RS 6 was seen leaving the garage with masked men inside, using a stolen license plate from Hanover.
Police are investigating the theft, considered one of Germany’s largest heists. The bank remains closed, with customers demanding answers.
Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses. The stolen vehicle’s license plate has been traced to a car stolen in Hanover.
The break-in highlights the vulnerability of bank vaults and safety deposit boxes. Customers are anxious about their stolen valuables and savings.
The theft is one of several high-profile bank heists in recent years. Authorities are taking the investigation seriously.
About the Author
