Authorities in the Pontevedra region of Galicia, Spain, have initiated an extensive search operation to apprehend three masked assailants involved in a violent home invasion early Tuesday morning.

The attack took place in the isolated village of Meis, located in the O Salnés comarca, when a couple was assaulted in their home and robbed of an undisclosed amount of cash.

According to Abel Losada, the subdelegate of the government in Pontevedra, initial reports indicate that the incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. The ensuing investigation has been led by the Civil Guard, deploying substantial manpower in the effort to locate the suspects, all believed to be Spanish nationals.

The couple, both in their 50s, were reportedly set upon by the suspects as they were stepping out of their residence to leave for work.

The intruders forced them back into their home, where they were subjected to severe physical violence.

The perpetrators bound their victims with plastic cable ties before beating them.

Disturbingly, the female victim was doused in gasoline and threatened with a firearm, though authorities are currently determining if it was real or a replica.

The subdelegate condemned the severity of the attack, describing it as a crime of 'extreme violence' unprecedented in recent years within the province.

Losada noted with concern that such incidents are not characteristic of the area, marking a significant deviation from typical criminal activities previously documented in Pontevedra.

As the condition of the victims remains a priority, both individuals have been admitted to a local hospital, receiving treatment for their injuries sustained during the ordeal.

In a statement, Losada emphasized the urgency of the investigation and assured that law enforcement agencies are exerting all efforts to bring the assailants to justice.

In response to the incident, the local community has been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as the manhunt continues.

The incident has sparked concern about home security measures and the potential for increased crime in otherwise peaceful rural regions.

Further information regarding the specifics of the stolen amount remains unreleased amid ongoing investigations.

Authorities urge patience as they continue to piece together the events of the early morning attack, reassuring residents of stepped-up security measures to prevent future occurrences.