Naples Bank Robbers Seize 25 Hostages, Then Disappear via Tunnel
Daylight Heist in Southern Italy
A group of armed individuals executed a daylight bank heist in Naples, locking 25 people inside the Crédit Agricole branch before vanishing through a concealed passage. The incident unfolded around midday local time (10:00 GMT), prompting law enforcement to swiftly encircle the building. Negotiators engaged with the perpetrators for approximately two hours before securing the release of the hostages.
Rescue Efforts and Chaos
Footage shared online depicted firefighters using battering rams to breach a window, aiding trapped individuals in escaping. While some captives managed to brush off broken glass and exit unaided, others appeared visibly distressed, with several weeping and embracing family members. Medical aid was provided to six individuals in shock, according to local reports.
“Thanks to the swift response… all the hostages were freed shortly after 13:30 without serious injuries,” regional official Michele di Bari stated in a statement.
Perpetrators’ Escape
Hours later, special forces from the carabinieri launched an assault on the bank, breaking a window and exchanging gunfire. Stun grenades created loud bursts of noise on the live feed, but by then the robbers had already disappeared through a tunnel. Local media suggested they might have fled into the city’s underground network.
Aftermath videos showed carabinieri and firefighters inspecting a nearby manhole, as crowds lingered in the square. Fanpage.it noted that the stolen items remained unidentified, as the perpetrators had taken personal safety deposit boxes instead of cash.
