Thieves steal $35 million from German bank vault

A brazen heist was carried out at a Sparkasse savings bank in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, over the Christmas holidays, resulting in an estimated loss of $35 million (approximately €30 million) in cash and personal valuables. The thieves breached the bank’s vault by drilling through a thick concrete wall, gaining access to more than 3,000 safe‑deposit boxes, which were subsequently forced open. This affected roughly 2,700 customers, with 95 % of the boxes compromised.

The break‑in is believed to have occurred between Saturday evening and Monday morning. Police discovered the scene after a fire alarm sounded at the bank shortly before 4:00 a.m. on Monday. Investigators suspect that a specialized, industrial‑grade drill was used, describing the heist as “professionally executed.” Witnesses reported seeing several individuals carrying large bags through a nearby parking garage over the weekend, and security footage captured a stolen black Audi RS 6 speeding away early Monday morning with masked occupants. The vehicle, stolen from Hanover—about 200 kilometers away—has been confirmed as a key part of the getaway.

Customers who arrived at the bank on Tuesday found it sealed off, and hundreds gathered to demand answers after Sparkasse confirmed the extent of the breach. The bank stated that the contents of each deposit box are insured up to €10,300, suggesting a total loss of at least €30 million, according to local media. Many customers fear this coverage will be insufficient and are scrambling to assess additional insurance. Police estimate the damage to be “in the two‑digit million range,” and the branch remains closed while the investigation continues.

Authorities have yet to make any arrests, and the perpetrators remain at large. The incident has left many customers reeling, and the bank is working to provide support and guidance to those affected. As the investigation unfolds, the full extent of the losses and the circumstances surrounding the heist will become clearer. For now, the case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust security measures and the need for individuals to be vigilant in protecting their assets.