A major bank robbery in Guelma saw criminals posing as cash transport guards steal 14.3 billion centimes from a Gulf Bank Algeria branch on Tuesday morning, according to local media reports. The heist unfolded without violence on Abderrahmane Tabouche Street, shocking residents and authorities alike.
The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. when a van resembling an official cash transport vehicle arrived at the branch. Four individuals dressed in standard security uniforms carried out the operation with apparent precision. Two entered the bank and presented what appeared to be legitimate transport documents authorizing a large cash withdrawal, while one remained at the entrance and another stayed behind the wheel.
Reassured by the uniforms and paperwork, bank staff complied with the request. The suspects were handed bags containing 14.3 billion centimes before calmly exiting the premises and leaving without raising suspicion. No shots were fired, and no immediate alarm was triggered, highlighting the calculated nature of the operation.
The deception only came to light later in the day when the bank’s regional headquarters in Constantine reported the unexplained disappearance of one of its official transport vans. After contacting the Guelma branch, it was confirmed that the vehicle used in the robbery had been stolen prior to the incident, raising serious questions about how the suspects executed the plan.
Security forces quickly launched an investigation, reviewing surveillance footage to trace the suspects’ movements. According to sources close to the case, the four individuals involved have already been identified, though authorities have not yet issued an official statement confirming arrests.
The case has sparked widespread concern in Guelma, with residents questioning how such a large-scale robbery could be carried out using authentic-looking documents and an official vehicle. Investigators are now working to determine whether the suspects had internal assistance or access to sensitive operational information.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the suspects’ status and the recovery of the stolen funds. The incident underscores growing concerns over security protocols in cash transport operations and the potential vulnerabilities within financial institutions.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.