3 smash-and-grab robberies in Oakland in 48 hours 1 business owner held at gunpoint

Eyewitnesses captured a bold smash-and-grab robbery at Kim Tin Jewelry store in Oakland's Little Saigon District, where eight suspects held the owner at gunpoint while stealing tens of thousands of dollars in jewelry. The robbery, which occurred around 1:40 p. m. , left the owner traumatized and the store closed. Jason Dao, the owner's son, emphasized the luck of his father's survival and the shock of the crime happening in broad daylight.

Sergeant Huy Nguyen of the Oakland Police Officers' Association attributed the incident to staffing shortages, revealing that two officers were unavailable during the time of the robbery. The Oakland Police Department announced plans to increase patrols in affected areas, but concerns over ongoing staffing issues persist. This robbery follows a series of similar crimes, including two bank robberies in Chinatown. The Dao family has started a GoFundMe campaign to help recover from the financial losses incurred due to the theft. Community members express growing fear and frustration over rising crime rates and inadequate police presence.