Terrifying Moment Dozens of Burglars Break into California Jewelry Store and Ransack It
Terrifying video footage has emerged of nearly two dozen robbers swarming into a California jewelry store and ransacking it. Five of the thieves have been arrested following the smash-and-grab robbery that took place just before 1:30 pm at the Hacienda Shopping Center on the 700 block of E. El Camino Real in Sunnyvale, California.
Brazen Daylight Heist Caught on Camera
Around 20 attackers were caught on camera storming the store, smashing jewelry cases with hammers and other weapons. The robbers swiftly grabbed merchandise before escaping in multiple vehicles ahead of police arriving on the scene. Footage showed the burglars piling into the store the minute the doors opened, spreading across the store in a highly organized manner, as if they had mapped out their route beforehand.
High-Speed Police Chases and Arrests
The swift response from law enforcement led to two police chases shortly after the robbery. Officers tracked down two of the getaway vehicles, both of which refused to pull over, resulting in a high-speed pursuit on northbound U.S. Highway 101.
The first vehicle managed to evade the authorities, who lost track of the suspects. During the second chase, suspects were seen throwing some of the stolen jewelry out the window, according to local police. Although officers lost sight of the second vehicle, they found it abandoned on the side of the highway shortly after in Redwood City.
Thieves Flee on Foot
The five burglars fled on foot, running across the freeway and into a nearby industrial area, where four of them were arrested. The fifth suspect was apprehended after being stopped by a police K-9 as he attempted to escape.
Suspects Charged with Multiple Crimes
The gang was taken into Santa Clara County Main Jail on charges including armed robbery, felony vehicle evasion, resisting arrest, burglary, conspiracy to commit a crime, vandalism, possession of burglary tools, and outstanding warrants. The suspects were named as Tonga Latu, Tavake Esafe, Ofa Ahomana, Kilifi Leaaetoa, and Afuhia Lavakeiaho.
Investigation Ongoing
The total value of the stolen jewelry was not released, although some items were recovered. Fortunately, no one was hurt during the robbery or the police chases. Officials are investigating whether this robbery is related to another incident in Sunnyvale in May, which also involved multiple suspects.