Quick-thinking guard foils villa burglary, police arrest two with jewels

A nighttime burglary attempt at the historic villa of Count Marcello Castelbarco Albani near Vigevano was foiled thanks to the prompt actions of the estate's custodian. The custodian alerted the police immediately after hearing the alarm system activate in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26.

Responding swiftly, two police patrols arrived at the scene and surrounded the villa. Officers discovered a forced entry point through a glass door leading to the garden, which had been broken and the frame pried open. Inside, they found several rooms in disarray and confronted two men attempting to flee with sacks filled with stolen goods.

The two arrested individuals, both 62 years old, were apprehended after a brief struggle, during which they dropped sacks containing gold, jewelry, and high-value watches. These recovered items have been returned to the villa's owners. A third accomplice managed to escape into the surrounding countryside and is currently being sought by authorities.

The villa belongs to Count Marcello Castelbarco Albani, a member of one of Italy's oldest and most prestigious aristocratic families, known for their historical ties to the Lomellina region and past business ventures in agriculture, maritime, and finance sectors. The Count was not present at the residence during the attempted theft.