Police, city officials meet with community after PNG jeweler robbed

Journalist India-West

SUNNYVALE, Calif. – Silicon Valley authorities held a meeting with members and leaders of the Native American community on June 14 following a series of thefts targeting Indian jewelry stores, ensuring tough action against the criminals.

The meeting took place immediately after the brazen theft of PNG Jewelers here on June 13. The Sunnyvale Police Department, in cooperation with regional authorities, arrested five people. The criminal investigation is ongoing and further arrests are expected.

City of Sunnyvale Mayor Larry Klein met with affected jewelry businesses alongside key city officials including Deputy Mayor Murali Srinivasan, Police Chief Phan Ngo, Acting City Manager Tim Kirby and the AIA leadership team.

Police Chief Phan Ngo shared crucial safety and prevention measures with business owners to help prevent future incidents. He also assured the community that toughest action would be taken against criminals and police patrols would be increased to enhance security.

“A series of armed robberies affecting Indian jewelry businesses from Newark to Sunnyvale has resulted in millions of dollars in losses and widespread panic among business owners and the local community,” said Ajay Bhutoria, a prominent resident from California present at the meeting. “Our businesses now feel a sense of relief knowing that effective measures are being taken to protect them,” he added.