Khaberni - Armed robbers stormed the "Crédit Agricole" bank branch in the heart of Naples, Italy, in a dramatic robbery that resulted in the hostage-taking of 25 people, including employees and clients, for nearly two hours, before the perpetrators managed to escape through the sewage network.
Three masked individuals wearing famous actors' masks entered the bank filled with visitors.
According to eyewitness accounts and security reports, the armed men completely took over the place, prompting a major security alert from the "Carabinieri" and rescue teams that completely cordoned off the area.
The bank's management confirmed in an official statement released after the incident that all hostages were safely released without any serious injuries.
The management indicated that the security systems were activated immediately, which helped to reduce the extent of the damage and protect lives.
Regarding the material toll, the bank clarified that about 40 safe deposit boxes were broken into and emptied out of hundreds of boxes in the main vault.
Although the total value of the stolen items has not yet been determined, due to the secrecy of the box contents, investigators suspect the involvement of an "inside man" (spy) who provided the culprits with precise information about the most valuable boxes.
Regarding the escape method, security forces found a large hole in the bank's floor leading to a carefully dug tunnel connected to the sewer system, which the thieves used to vanish from sight before the arrival of security reinforcements and the building breach.
The Italian authorities are currently analyzing security camera footage and examining a vehicle suspected to be used by the gang members, amidst a state of shock that pervaded the neighborhood due to the cinematic scenario with which the crime was executed in broad daylight.
