In a robbery that has raised serious questions about security lapses and possible internal involvement, the First National Bank (FNB) branch on Victoria Street in Germiston was the target of a bold and well-planned heist on Tuesday, 22 April 2025.
What police confirmed about the FNB Germiston bank robbery
The crime scene stunned law enforcement officers and investigators. According to Germiston police, the robbers used a tunnel to access the bank — a method not seen in recent years but reminiscent of the infamous Krugersdorp tunnel heist of 1977, where the perpetrators were never caught.
In this latest case, the burglars are believed to have started from inside the neighbouring Nedbank building. From there, they drilled through the floor to create a tunnel that led directly into the FNB premises.
Once inside the bank, the suspects displayed detailed knowledge of the bank’s internal layout and security infrastructure. Investigators confirmed that the robbers first disabled the alarm system and removed movement-activated cameras to avoid detection.
After gaining unrestricted access, they breached a rhino board wall to reach the vault area.
Inside the vault room, they used industrial grinders to cut open two of the safes and managed to steal a substantial but still undisclosed amount of cash. A third safe was also targeted but could not be opened.
The criminals then exited the same way they entered — through the tunnel connecting back to Nedbank — leaving behind significant property damage but no physical injuries.
Warrant Officer Sehlangu, who is leading the investigation, described the robbery as “a highly organised operation,” citing the elaborate planning and precise execution.
“The level of sophistication indicates premeditation, and we are following every available lead,” he said.
The fact that the alarm system and cameras were tampered with before the safes were accessed has led some investigators to believe the crime could have involved inside knowledge. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether bank staff are being investigated, but the possibility of an inside job has not been ruled out.
FNB has yet to issue a detailed public statement, but a spokesperson confirmed that a forensic audit is underway to determine the exact amount stolen and to assess how the security systems were breached without alerting off-site monitors.
Meanwhile, Germiston police are calling on the public to provide any information that may help identify the suspects.
No arrests have been made as of Wednesday morning, and the bank remains closed to the public as investigations continue.
Authorities have urged local business owners and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
