Theft and Violence Interrupts EPT Game in Berlin
Poker is generally considered a non-contact sport, and these days, it’s not considered a dangerous game the way it was in the Wild West. But today’s European Poker Tour (EPT) game in Berlin proved that even poker can get dangerous. The presence of that much cash was obviously too much temptation for a team of thieves. The crew were shown in photographs with ski masks on, armed with knives. The men ran into the venue, frightening competitors and onlookers. Police reported that the crew was composed of four men, while the EPT statement said there were six men. A brave security guard managed to fight and temporarily subdue one of the the bandits, but another attacked the security guard, causing him a head injury. No other injuries were reported, and the security guard’s injury is said to be mild.
Reports vary, but photographs from the scene show that the men wielded large knives. Some reports claimed that the men held guns, and that the wife of the tournament director was held at gunpoint. Other reports claim that the bandits threatened that there was a bomb on the premises. Tables and chairs were overturned. Photos and video captured much of the havoc, but left much unclear. Police are declining statement about many details due to the ongoing investigation. Official statements from EPT spokespeople claim that the team of bandits managed to steal less than $1 million. This is unlikely since the jackpot for the day was €1 million. The event was slated to continue later on this afternoon, despite the mental states of the competitors.
