Police say multiple suspects and hostages likely inside German bank

Police launched a major operation Friday in the southwestern German town of Sinzig after reports of a hostage-taking following an attempted bank robbery, with multiple suspects and hostages likely inside the bank.

Local media said the incident began in the morning when an armored car arrived at a bank branch in the town center. The situation quickly escalated, prompting a large police response.

Authorities said they believe “several perpetrators and hostages” remain inside the building, including the driver of the armored car, which was carrying cash. They declined to share further details, saying they did not want to jeopardize the ongoing operation.

Bild daily reported that special police units took up positions around the perimeter shortly after officers arrived at the scene. A police helicopter was seen circling over the downtown area.

“As part of the operation, extensive measures were put in place to cordon off the area,” police said.

While authorities maintained there is no immediate danger to the public outside the perimeter, they urged residents to stay away from the area and cautioned against spreading unverified information on social media.