Banks in Paraguay are the target of a mega-robbery with explosives
The Paraguayan police are investigating a mega-robbery of three banks and a currency exchange office in Santa Rita, a city about two hours from Foz do Iguaçu. The municipality has a large community of Brazilians.
The incident took place around 2am this Tuesday (16), local time, involving a group of approximately 20 criminals. The Paraguayan portal Última Hora reported that, according to César Silguero, commander of the country's National Police, it is possible that Brazilians are also part of the criminal group.
The suspects used long weapons, carried explosives and wore hoods and balaclavas, according to authorities.
Branches of Banco Familiar and Banco GNB were attacked with explosives. A unit of Banco Ueno was also invaded, where two employees and a security guard were captured.
The criminals also invaded the Santa Rita Exchange House, where an unexploded explosive device was found. According to managers, nothing of value was taken from Banco Ueno and the Exchange House.
Banco Ueno branch after mega-robbery in Santa Rita, Paraguay - Ministry of the Interior of Paraguay
According to authorities, police officers who were in a vehicle were surprised and surrounded by the criminals, who surrendered one of them. This agent was disarmed and had his service weapon and a Galil rifle, belonging to the National Police, taken.
The other three managed to get out of the vehicle and take shelter on the side of the road. Shots were exchanged with the criminals, who then carried out attacks on the banks.
Bank GNB branch after mega-robbery in Santa Rita, Paraguay - Ministry of the Interior of Paraguay
During their escape, the group set fire to two vehicles - one at the north entrance and the other at the south entrance of the city. They also scattered tire spikes across the area.
An arrest warrant was issued by the police and security agents from the neighboring cities of Caazapá, Caaguazú and Itapúa were also alerted.
The Paraguayan Public Ministry has been notified and an investigation is underway.
Source: CNN