An attempted robbery at Sona Sansaar, a family-owned jewellery store in Mount Roskill, was foiled this afternoon when assailants were unable to breach the store’s reinforced glass and security measures.
The incident, which involved a security guard being assaulted, underscores ongoing security challenges for NZ jewellers.
Details of the Incident
A group of four to five armed offenders targeted the jewellery store on Stoddard Road shortly after 4 p.m., as reported by a police spokeswoman.
The attackers, wielding weapons but not firearms, assaulted the store’s security guard with a hammer. Fortunately, the staff inside the store quickly activated a security grille, preventing the robbers from gaining entry.
Despite their attempts to smash through the door, the offenders were unsuccessful and fled in a car, which was later found abandoned nearby. The security guard received minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for further assessment.
Response and Investigation
Police have initiated enquiries to identify and apprehend the offenders involved in this brazen daylight attack. Confirming the absence of firearms, the police spokeswoman stated, “I can confirm no guns were seen and no shots were fired.”
Harish Lodhia JP, Consulate of the Republic of Fiji and owner of Sona Sansaar, expressed relief that the robbers did not manage to steal anything. Lodhia also mentioned that insurance would not cover the damages incurred during the incident.
Community and Industry Reactions
The incident has left local business owners and the wider jewellery community shaken. Sunny Kaushal, chair of the Dairy & Business Owners Group and president of the Crime Prevention Group, highlighted the increasing frequency of such crimes. “They assaulted the security guard, and that’s very serious. He has been taken to the hospital,” Kaushal said. He added that crimes of this nature were occurring “almost every other day,” reflecting a worrying trend in New Zealand society.
Implications for the Jewellery Industry
This attempted robbery highlights the persistent security challenges facing jewellery retailers. The incident not only underscores the importance of robust security measures but also raises questions about the adequacy of current systems in deterring increasingly bold criminal activities. For jewellers, investing in advanced security technologies and collaborating with law enforcement agencies may be critical steps in safeguarding their businesses.
