Bay Area Jewelry Store Overwhelmed in Disturbing Smash-and-Grab Robbery

Officers in Sunnyvale have arrested five suspects involved in a brazen smash-and-grab robbery at a California jewelry store that was captured on video. The incident, which unfolded on Wednesday, June 12th, involved approximately 20 suspects who used hammers and other tools to break into the jewelry cases and seize everything inside.

Sunnyvale Police have apprehended five suspects involved in a disturbing smash-and-grab robbery at a California jewelry store that was caught on video.

Bay Area Jewelry Store Overwhelmed in Disturbing Smash-and-Grab Robbery

Around 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 12th, officers with the Sunnyvale Police Department responded to PNG Jewelers USA for a report of a burglary in process. Police reported that approximately 20 suspects used hammers and other tools to smash into the jewelry cases, grab everything inside, and flee the store.

As the suspects made their escape, officers were able to locate two suspects' vehicles. However, both vehicles fled the area and led police on a pursuit. One vehicle managed to escape, while the other was tracked down. During the chase, police said the suspects discarded the stolen jewelry from the car.

Bay Area Jewelry Store Overwhelmed in Disturbing Smash-and-Grab Robbery

Five suspects eventually abandoned the car and fled on foot across a freeway. Officers were able to locate and arrest all five individuals. They were identified as Tonga Latu, Tavake Esafe, Ofa Ahomana, Kilifi Leaaetoa, and Afuhia Lavakeiaho.

All five suspects were booked into Santa Clara County Jail for armed robbery, felony vehicle evasion, resisting arrest, burglary, conspiracy to commit a crime, vandalism, possession of burglary tools, and outstanding warrants. Some of the stolen jewelry was recovered by police, but the total value of the stolen items remains unknown.

Bay Area Jewelry Store Overwhelmed in Disturbing Smash-and-Grab Robbery

It is important to note that no victims were injured during the robbery. Investigators are currently exploring whether this incident is connected to another jewelry store robbery in Sunnyvale that occurred in May, which also involved multiple suspects.

The arrests of these five suspects represent a significant step towards holding those responsible for this brazen robbery accountable for their actions. The Sunnyvale Police Department continues to investigate the incident and is actively pursuing the remaining suspects involved.