Authorities in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, reported that thieves drilled into a bank vault over the Christmas holiday, stealing cash and valuables estimated at €30 million ($35 million).
The robbery occurred at a savings bank on Monday, December 29. Police said the perpetrators took advantage of the quiet holiday period to access several thousand safe deposit boxes. A fire alarm triggered around 4 a.m. led responders to discover the hole in the vault basement.
Investigators believe the thieves entered the building via a parking garage and escaped with stolen items in a stolen black Audi RS 6, with masked individuals visible on surveillance footage. Witnesses reported seeing men carrying large bags in the stairwell overnight.
Around 2,700 customers were affected by the theft. The bank remained closed the following day as authorities continue their investigation. Police say the operation appears to have required extensive planning.
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