Massive Attack in Santa Rita: Over 20 Assailants Hit Three Banks and a Currency Exchange with Explosives

A coordinated and violent assault by more than 20 heavily armed individuals targeted the financial heart of Santa Rita early Monday morning. The attackers utilized explosives to strike three banks, Familiar, GNB, and Ueno Bank, along Route PY07, as well as a currency exchange office.

The brazen raid began with an ambush on four police officers from Comisaría 18ª who were conducting security patrols. The assailants surrounded the police vehicle, disarmed three officers, and subdued them. Three other officers managed to escape the immediate vicinity and returned fire from the roadside.

Following the confrontation with police, the criminals detonated explosives at Banco Familiar and Banco GNB, causing substantial damage. They also entered Ueno Bank, where they subdued two employees and a security guard, stealing his firearm. Investigators are still verifying if any money or other valuables were taken from Ueno Bank.

The attackers also raided the Casa de Cambios Santa Rita. An undetonated explosive device was later found at the scene. Officials from the currency exchange reported that no assets were stolen from their establishment.