Early on February 24, 2025, the Commercity shopping complex in Rome was rocked by a dramatic robbery carried out by a well-organized gang. According to reports from Adnkronos, the criminals targeted the international transport company 'Edgar', executing their plan just as dawn broke over the city.
Around 4:14 AM, the gang made their entrance by force, using a van to smash through the back entrance of Edgar. They quickly moved inside and stole various high-value electronics including computers, smartphones, and televisions. The extent of the theft remains uncertain, but it is expected to be significant. Eyewitness reports suggest the criminals loaded up their stolen goods with astonishing efficiency.
To secure their escape, the robbers implemented what appears to be a premeditated plan. They set five vehicles ablaze—an act they used to block all access and exits from the complex. This incendiary blockade created chaos, hampering any immediate response from the police and emergency services. Local authorities had no choice but to close several streets, including the busy via Portuense, due to the fire and hazardous obstacles left behind. "The police were forced to close some streets due to the presence of spikes on the road," the Cotral transport company noted on its website, indicating serious disruptions to local traffic.
After successfully executing the robbery, the gang scattered spikes on key thoroughfares such as via Portuense, via della Muratella, and along highway exit ramps. This move was likely intended to deter pursuing police forces and to delay any quick response. Angelo Vastola, a councilman for the XI Municipality of Rome, took to social media to comment on the severe measures the gang employed, highlighting the extent of their brutality.
Despite the chaos, there were no reported injuries during the incident, as most of the crime took place under the cover of darkness when few people were nearby. The quick actions of the gang raised questions about their planning and coordination, as they seemed well-prepared to deal with law enforcement.
Police were seen investigating the scene shortly after the robbery. They collected evidence, including analyzing security camera footage from the vicinity to identify the assailants. The urgency of their efforts underscored the seriousness of the crime, as detectives gathered witness testimonies and evaluated the aftermath.
The local fire department responded to extinguish the flames consuming the vehicles, confirming the severity of the situation at Commercity. The widespread nature of the crime—spanning several exits and streets—has made the investigation complex. Authorities have initiated roadblocks and checks across the jurisdiction, aiming to capture the suspects before they can evade arrest completely.
Overall, this brazen robbery raises significant concerns about security protocols at commercial sites like Commercity, particularly those dealing with valuable goods. The police will undoubtedly face pressure to boost safety measures and investigate how such organized crime can take root within the community. Attempts are now underway to quantify the total loss incurred by Edgar and to recover the stolen items, which may be sold on the black market.
The incident reflects broader issues of safety and order, leaving many residents wondering about the effectiveness of local law enforcement and the potential rise of more daring crimes.