Two weeks after the million-euro break-in at a Sparkasse branch in Gelsenkirchen-Buer, where thieves drilled into the vault and looted nearly all 3,250 safe deposit boxes, NRW Interior Minister Herbert Reul (CDU) suggests possible insider assistance due to suspicious details. Sparkasse CEO Michael Klotz defends the bank's security measures, calling it a victim, as damage estimates rise to triple-digit millions.
NRW Interior Minister Herbert Reul (CDU) voiced suspicions in a 'WAZ' interview about the late December heist, noting 'oddities' like the use of a non-alarm-secured door and precise core drilling. 'Help for the perpetrators is at least not unlikely,' he said, while acknowledging it could be coincidence but praising the gang's professionalism.
Sparkasse CEO Michael Klotz rejected security criticisms in a press release, stating the vault room met 'state-of-the-art' standards with recently updated alarms and fire detection. 'It's always a race between security and criminals,' he told 'WAZ', declining to comment on insider theories. The bank, financially stable, covers up to 10,300 euros per box, though higher claims may follow if flaws are proven.
Staff are working around the clock with police and notaries to inventory and return customers' items. Initial police damage estimates of mid double-digits have been revised upward amid ongoing assessments.
