Updated | Man attempts bank robbery but leaves empty handed

A man has been arrested by the police over a suspected bank robbery attempt.

A police spokesperson confirmed that the police had received a report about an attempted bank robbery at roughly 11.15am.

The spokesperson said that a 76-year-old man had entered the bank holding a plastic gun and with his face covered. He left the bank after a short while, getting into a car and driving away.

He was apprehended by the police shortly after.

The police said that nothing was stolen and nobody was injured in the incident.

A spokesperson for the bank confirmed the incident took place and that all employees and customers were safe and unharmed.

“A person of interest is currently in police custody as the police investigate this incident. HSBC Malta thanks the police for a swift and effective response,” the spokesperson said.

The bank thanked the police for their “swift and effective response”, adding that the bank was unable to comment further given that police investigations were still ongoing.

The spokesperson said the bank would reopen tomorrow, while apologizing for any inconvenience caused.