Police in Danville, California, are trying to identify a burglary crew blamed for a series of early-morning break-ins at businesses across the town, with smashed windows and doors causing thousands of dollars in damage.
The intruders struck shopping centres in the early hours of Tuesday, 1 September, apparently using a tool to shatter glass before entering restaurants, salons and other premises. Surveillance footage suggests the same group was involved in several incidents beginning at about 3.45am.
Danville burglary spree leaves businesses facing costly repairs
At least five businesses were targeted at the Crossroads of Danville shopping centre. At Dolce Beauté salon, one suspect appeared to take snacks from the rear of the premises before removing a security camera.
“They just took all the snacks, and then pulled off the camera that was in front,” said salon employee Connie Palomino.
Workers were still repairing the damage on Thursday, 3 September, replacing the plywood covering the salon’s entrance with new glass. Business owners said the cost of repairs was likely to far exceed the value of anything stolen.
At Los Panchos Mexican restaurant, footage showed three people smashing through the front door. They went behind the bar, took bottles of alcohol and damaged the cash registers.
Sultan’s Kebab was also broken into, although the burglars apparently left without taking anything. Owner Abdullah Dinc said thieves had stolen $20,000 from the Mediterranean restaurant in November.
“I’m very angry, because they took my money,” he said, describing how he had been working every day.
Another restaurant owner, Amarnath Garikapati, said about $700 was taken from his Indian restaurant after he forgot to remove the cash at the end of the night.
“I never thought it would happen in Danville,” he said. “I’m very upset. It happened unfortunately, so hopefully the cops will take extra care.”
Reports of damage also emerged from Danville Square shopping centre nearby, where a sushi restaurant, a nail salon and a cafe were targeted. Kibi’s Cafe, on Railroad Avenue, reported that roughly $300 was taken from its till after a window was smashed.
Businesses that escaped the burglary spree said they were now worried they could be targeted next.
“I’m worried about next time, they will hit me,” said a market owner who gave his name only as Morad. “It shouldn’t be anything like that. It’s Danville. It’s a wealthy neighbourhood.”
