Armored Car Robbery Disrupts Traffic on A14 Motorway in Italy

A brazen robbery targeting an armored car has caused importent disruption on the A14 Bologna-Taranto motorway in the Foggia province of Italy. The incident, which occurred on January 8, 2026, involved a coordinated attack utilizing firearms, explosives, and arson, prompting a large-scale response from law enforcement and emergency services.

Details of the attack

According to initial reports, the robbery took place at kilometer 595 of the A14, between the Cerignola Est exit and the junction for the A16 Napoli-Canosa motorway. A southbound armored vehicle was targeted by a gang of armed individuals. The perpetrators reportedly used explosives to breach the armored car and fired shots to intimidate security personnel [1].

Following the robbery, the gang attempted to hinder police pursuit by setting fire to three vehicles along the motorway. Firefighters quickly responded to extinguish the flames.

Traffic Disruption and Diversions

The A14 motorway was instantly closed to traffic following the attack, causing substantial congestion. Authorities implemented diversions for motorists traveling in both directions:

• Towards Bari: Drivers were directed to exit at Cerignola Est and take the SS16 Adriatica towards Bari, continuing to Canosa/Barletta before re-entering the A14 at Canosa.
• From A16 Naples-Canosa towards Pescara: Motorists were advised to exit at Cerignola Ovest, utilize the local road network, and rejoin the A14 at Cerignola Est.

Significant queues formed, wiht delays reported up to 3 kilometers in the direction of Pescara due to debris scattered across the roadway [1]. Autostrade per l’Italia personnel were deployed to manage traffic and assist with the diversions.

Separate incidents on A14

Recent weeks have seen multiple incidents on the A14 motorway. On January 5, 2026, an armored van was attacked in the Chieti area, between Ortona and Francavilla, resulting in two injuries attributed to intoxication [2]. another incident near Ortona involved the use of nails, smoke bombs, and a vehicle fire [3].

Ongoing Investigation

Italian police are currently investigating the robbery and the related incidents. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the amount of money stolen or the identities of the perpetrators. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Publication Date: 2026/01/08 07:00:03