30 Million Euro Heist at Gelsenkirchen Sparkasse Shakes Customers and Officials

In the early hours of December 30, 2025, robbers orchestrated a massive burglary at the Sparkasse bank in Gelsenkirchen, making off with an estimated 30 million euros. The criminals targeted 3,200 safety deposit boxes, impacting over 2,500 customers.

The break-in was discovered when firefighters and police responded to a fire alarm in the building. The perpetrators gained entry through a parking garage using a specialized large drill, allowing them access to the vault area. The incident has caused significant concern among customers, many of whom gathered outside the bank's Buer district branch demanding access and information about the safety of their valuables.

Police maintained perimeter security and informed waiting customers that the bank would remain closed and advised them to check the bank’s website for updates. The Sparkasse Gelsenkirchen issued assurances that each safety deposit box is insured for up to 10,300 euros and urged clients to review their insurance policies. The German Association of Insured Persons also recommended customers verify their coverage as insurance for safety deposit box contents typically depends on agreements and may require adjustments.

Bank officials acknowledged the rarity of such burglaries and encouraged clients to carefully document the contents of their deposit boxes. The financial and emotional impact on the more than 2,500 affected customers remains significant.

This high-profile robbery coincides with a broader moment of tension in Germany, as reported on the same day, highlighting worries about financial stability for ordinary citizens. Despite this, security and investigative efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible and assess the full scope of losses.