News Update

A group of 11 individuals is facing charges from the Public Ministry in Portugal for their alleged involvement in a series of 14 crimes, including bank robberies, hold-ups at currency exchange offices, and attacks on cash-in-transit vehicles. Prosecutors estimate the group obtained approximately 900,000 euros through these criminal activities.

According to the indictment, the most significant robbery occurred on February 5, 2025, at a Novo Banco branch in Casal do Marco, Seixal. The operation involved five armed individuals. While two suspects remained outside in a vehicle, three others entered the bank wearing masks and brandishing a firearm. The group reportedly disabled internal surveillance cameras and forced four employees and several customers into the bank’s pantry. An employee was then coerced at gunpoint to open the vault, allowing the suspects to steal more than 200,000 euros before fleeing in a Fiat Tipo.

Investigators allege that the core members of the group resided in the parish of Amora, in Seixal. Following the robbery, the suspects reportedly engaged in money laundering activities to conceal the stolen funds. The indictment states that at least 30 bank transfers were executed, and the group used part of the proceeds to purchase at least two vehicles.

The 11 defendants are charged with crimes including criminal association, robbery, kidnapping, and document forgery. Six of the individuals are currently being held in preventive detention.

Article and image source: cmjornal.pt