Naples, Italy — April 16, 2026
A group of armed robbers held 25 people hostage at a Crédit Agricole bank branch in Naples on Thursday before escaping through a hole in the floor, according to multiple reports.
Hostages Freed Without Serious Injuries
The standoff ended when Italian authorities secured the release of all hostages by early afternoon. "Thanks to the swift response … all the hostages were freed shortly after 1:30pm, without serious injuries," officials confirmed. The robbers had entered the bank in the Arenella district, near piazza Medaglie d'Oro, and barricaded themselves inside with customers and employees.
Local media, including Fanpage.it, reported that the assailants used the bank's layout to their advantage, cutting through the floor to access a lower level and evade police. The exact number of robbers remains unclear, but witnesses described them as heavily armed and wearing masks. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any suspects were apprehended following the escape.
Investigation Underway
Italian law enforcement, led by Naples police chief Michele di Bari, has launched a full-scale investigation into the brazen robbery. The incident marks one of the most dramatic bank heists in recent memory for the city, which has seen a mix of organized crime and high-profile thefts in the past.
Crédit Agricole, a French banking group with a significant presence in Italy, has not released an official statement but is cooperating with investigators. The bank branch remained closed following the incident, with forensic teams combing the site for evidence.