Armed Robbers Hold 25 Hostages in Naples Bank Heist

Several armed men robbed a bank in broad daylight. The crime happened in Naples, a southern Italian city. They held 25 people hostage. The robbers then escaped through a tunnel.

A Dramatic Daytime Heist

Police surrounded the Crédit Agricole branch shortly after midday. Local outlets reported that negotiators spoke with the robbers. The hostages were released about two hours later.

Hostages Escape Through Windows

Firemen smashed a window with battering rams. Videos on social media showed them helping people climb out. Some hostages simply shook off the glass and walked away. Others looked visibly shaken. Several people cried and hugged their relatives. Six people were in a state of shock. They received medical assistance.

No Violence Used

One hostage later spoke to local news site Fanpage.it. He said the robbers locked them in a room. The men were armed. However, “they did not use violence”. As a result, nobody was seriously injured.Regional official Michele di Bari praised the response. “All the hostages were freed shortly after 13:30 without serious injuries,” he said in a statement.