New York, NY– New York City’s NYPD is actively searching for two individuals connected to a series of daring robberies involving over $163,000 in stolen jewelry. These incidents spanned across Manhattan and Queens, as reported by both Gothamist and SILive. In a bold move on Sept. 20, two culprits managed to distract a UPS driver in Manhattan’s Chinatown before making off with a high-value jewelry haul. “The individuals fled on foot and no injuries were reported,” SILive details.
Earlier in the month, on Sept. 12, a 33-year-old man became another one of their targets while he was focused on changing a flat tire. According to a statement obtained by Gothamist, a bag containing jewelry was skillfully taken from his car. In an to similarly orchestrate a theft in Queens just hours later, the suspects lured a woman away from her car under the pretense of a tire issue and then absconded with a package from her vehicle.
The NYPD has made efforts to involve the community in their pursuit for justice by releasing surveillance images of the suspects and urging anyone with information to step forward. These concerned citizens can anonymously contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline, appealing for Spanish speakers as well, and submit tips online.
With these crimes being non-violent and the criminals yet to be apprehended, there’s a palpable concern that they may potentially strike again. Anyone with relevant information is strongly encouraged to reach out to the authorities. “All calls are strictly confidential,” insists SILive, highlighting the NYPD’s commitment to safeguarding the identity of those who decide to assist in the investigation. The community’s cooperation is essential as the NYPD continues to aggressively pursue leads in this case.
If you have any information regarding this incident or information on these two suspects, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.