An association representing convenience stores and gas stations across San Diego County announced this week a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of gunmen who have repeatedly robbed their stores.
Officials offered the reward for information after 16 robberies were reported over the last 10 days, said Arkan Somo, president of the Neighborhood Market Association, a group that represents local family-owned businesses.
“Business owners are scared, our employees are scared and our customers are really worried now,” Somo said. “That’s why we’re offering the reward.”
On Sunday, police announced they had arrested three teens in connection with a string of armed robberies at San Diego convenience stores. The teens were found with three guns, including an AR-15 and at least one unserialized firearm, San Diego police said.
Somo said he believes the teens were responsible for a number of the recent burglaries, but there were more suspects still out there.
The arrests came days after San Diego police announced they were investigating a string of at least 10 “takeover-style” robberies.
Police said the robbers covered their faces with masks and entered stores in groups of one to five. They demanded money and products from cashiers.
“In the ‘90s, (suspects) would hit one or two stores and then disappear; it was sporadic,” Somo said. “It is not sporadic now, and it’s all over the county.”
The stores robbed were located in various neighborhoods throughout the county. Sheriff Kelly Martinez said Monday her department was working with their community partners to help stop future robberies.
“We will continue in our efforts to put a stop to these violent crimes,” Martinez said.
Investigators asked people with information to call the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477.
