The Most Infamous Heist
Great Train Robbery
1. Background: - The Great Train Robbery involved the theft of £2.6 million (equivalent to around £53 million today) from a Royal Mail train heading from Glasgow to London. - The robbers targeted the train as it passed through the rural area of Bridego Bridge in Buckinghamshire, where they had tampered with the signals to stop the train. 2. Planning: - The robbery was meticulously planned over several months by a group of 15 robbers led by mastermind Bruce Reynolds. - The robbers rented a farm called Leatherslade Farm to use as their hideout and base of operations for the heist. - They obtained insider information about the train's schedule, composition, and security measures to ensure a successful robbery. 3. Execution: - On the night of the robbery, the gang intercepted the train, overpowered the train driver, and uncoupled the carriage containing the money. - The robbers transferred the cash into waiting vehicles and made their escape, leaving behind evidence that would later help authorities identify them.