A gang of robbers executed a daring heist at a bank in Lübeck, Germany, stealing over £16.7 million (approximately €19 million) worth of valuables. The incident unfolded on December 20, 2022, when the thieves concealed themselves inside the Deutsche Bank branch for more than 17 hours before making their escape the following morning.
The meticulously planned operation involved the gang bringing a portable toilet to avoid leaving any DNA evidence in the bank’s restrooms. This level of preparation has raised suspicions that one of the members may have had insider knowledge of the bank’s operations. The so-called “coat gang” was spotted on surveillance cameras wearing long coats, face masks, and caps to disguise their identities.
According to reports from Need To Know, the gang entered the bank around midday and remained hidden in upstairs offices until they began their looting after the branch closed. Alarm systems failed to activate during the heist, only sounding after the suspects had fled at approximately 05:00 the next morning.
Investigation and Rewards Offered
In response to the massive theft, bank customers who were affected have offered a reward of £263,235 (around €300,000) for information leading to the gang’s capture. They have also enlisted the help of renowned private investigator Josef Resch, who is 76 years old and has a track record of solving high-profile cases.
Resch noted the unusual inclusion of a mini-toilet in the gang’s equipment, saying, “It was probably a chemical toilet, like the kind campers often use. Perhaps one of them worked for the bank, or for a security or cleaning company.” His insights suggest a level of sophistication in the planning of the heist that has surprised many investigators.
The investigation is ongoing, with Jens Buscher, a spokesman for the public prosecutor’s office, confirming that the value of the stolen goods is now confirmed at over €19 million. Resch believes that the reward may lead to crucial information, as he aims to track down the suspects who so brazenly executed this heist.
Security Measures Under Scrutiny
The bank’s security protocols are under scrutiny following the incident. A security guard reportedly saw two individuals with SUVs in the bank’s courtyard but failed to document their license plates. This oversight has raised questions about how the gang was able to conduct their operation without drawing attention.
As the investigation continues, the audacity of the coat gang’s actions has left many in the community questioning how such a significant theft could occur without immediate detection. With the investigation still unfolding, the public remains hopeful that the substantial reward will yield critical tips that could lead to the arrest of those responsible for this remarkable bank heist.
