Recent Bank Robbery in Ljubljana by Croatian Citizens

In less than a month, three Croatian citizens committed a series of bank robberies in Ljubljana using what is known as a gas explosion technique, stealing a significant amount of money and causing extensive damage. After the fourth attack, they were apprehended at the Obrežje border crossing while attempting to flee back to their homeland.

Arrest and Confessions

One of the individuals involved, Goran Tešić, has already pleaded guilty and was sentenced to just over two years of weekend prison. Recently, 33-year-old Nikola Prelec and 38-year-old Marko Marušić appeared in court in Ljubljana and confessed to their involvement in the crimes. The prosecution offered Prelec a three-year prison sentence and a three-year expulsion from the country in exchange for admitting to two major thefts and one attempted theft. Marušić was offered nine months in prison, a €3000 fine, and a two-year expulsion. Both accepted the proposed sentences.

Details of the Robberies

It was reported that Prelec, along with accomplices, forcefully opened an NLB bank ATM in Štepanjsko naselje on May 23rd, stealing €79,530 and causing €23,000 in damages. They targeted another NLB ATM in Mercator on June 5th, where they stole over €20,000 and caused the same amount in damages. While fleeing, they lost €700 and a scarf containing biological traces that led investigators to Prelec. On June 19th, Prelec, Tešić, and Marušić attempted to rob a Delavska hranilnica ATM in Novi Fužine, causing over €40,000 in damages.

Personal Motivations and Apologies

Prelec, who has a criminal record in Croatia, stated that he needed the money for his seriously ill son’s medical treatment abroad. He expressed remorse and apologized, promising never to engage in such actions again. Marušić, a first-time offender, also expressed regret for his involvement in the crimes and asked for understanding due to his family circumstances.

Legal Proceedings and Financial Obligations

The court will announce the final sentences for Prelec and Marušić next week, considering the time they have already spent in custody. They will also need to settle financial claims totaling nearly €190,000 from NLB, Delavska hranilnica, and Zavarovalnica Triglav. Tešić has already paid €10,000, while Prelec has paid €6,000 towards these claims.

Conclusion

The recent bank robberies in Ljubljana by Croatian citizens have highlighted the impact of criminal activities on individuals and financial institutions. The swift arrest and legal proceedings demonstrate the commitment to upholding the law and seeking justice for the victims.

FAQs

1. Are the stolen funds recoverable?

Efforts are being made to recover the stolen funds through legal means and financial settlements.

2. What measures are in place to prevent similar robberies in the future?

Authorities are reviewing security protocols at ATMs and enhancing surveillance to deter potential criminals from committing such acts.

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