Gang tries to storm bank in Baghdad with bombs and gunfire; 2 police killed

Failed bank heist in Baghdad leaves 2 police dead

BAGHDAD — Iraqi security officials say a gang using bombs and weapons tried to storm a bank in Baghdad in a failed robbery attempt that killed at least two policeman.

The officials say the assault Thursday began with four bombs exploding near the state-run Al-Rafidain bank in southwestern Baghdad. They say a gun battle followed and two policeman were killed and two suspected robbers were captured.

Military spokesman Maj. Gen. Qassim al-Moussawi says it’s unclear whether the gang has links to Sunni insurgents.

Baghdad has been hit recently by a wave of targeted attacks on security officials and government workers.

The security officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief media.