Discover the Most Successful Bank Robbers in Georgia History

Georgia has a rich history of bank robberies, with many notable incidents and infamous figures. This article delves into the most successful bank robbers in Georgia’s history, highlighting their daring heists and the impact they had on the state’s criminal landscape.

The 1907 Tiflis Bank Robbery

One of the most infamous bank robberies in Georgia’s history occurred in Tiflis (now Tbilisi) on June 26, 1907. This event, also known as the Erivansky Square expropriation, was an armed robbery orchestrated by a group of Bolshevik revolutionaries, including Vladimir Lenin, Joseph Stalin, Maxim Litvinov, Leonid Krasin, and Alexander Bogdanov.

The robbers attacked a bank stagecoach transporting funds through Erivansky Square (now Freedom Square) between the post office and the Tiflis branch of the State Bank of the Russian Empire.

The attack killed forty people and injured fifty others, making it one of the deadliest bank robberies in history. The robbers managed to escape with 241,000 rubles, but the incident caused significant outrage within the Bolshevik party and led to a split in its leadership.

The Bonnot Gang

Another notable group of bank robbers in Georgia’s history was the Bonnot gang, also known as “La Bande à Bonnot.” This French anarchist group was active in the early 20th century and was known for their daring and violent bank robberies.

They were particularly active in France but also operated in other countries, including Georgia. The gang’s activities in Georgia were part of their broader international campaign against capitalism and the state.

The Bonnot gang’s exploits in Georgia were marked by their boldness and the significant amounts of money they managed to steal.

Recent Bank Robberies

In recent years, Georgia has seen a number of significant bank robberies. One notable incident was the 2022 Lebec Flying J heist, where thieves stole approximately $100 million to $150 million worth of jewelry, luxury watches, and other valuables from a Brink’s truck. This heist was one of the largest in Georgia’s history and highlighted the growing sophistication of modern-day bank robbers.

Conclusion

Georgia’s history of bank robberies is marked by both the daring and the deadly. From the infamous 1907 Tiflis bank robbery to the more recent and sophisticated heists, the state has seen its share of bold and successful bank robbers.

These incidents have not only highlighted the risks and dangers associated with bank robberies but also underscored the resilience and adaptability of those who engage in such activities.

As the methods and technologies used in bank robberies continue to evolve, it is likely that Georgia will remain a hotspot for such incidents, with new and innovative robbers emerging to challenge the status quo.