Vinay Karanam In a shocking incident that unfolded in just 45 seconds, six masked thieves targeted Glitter Jewellers, a jewelry store in Manurewa, Auckland. Armed with weapons, they stole jewels and gold worth a staggering $1 million, leaving staff and customers terrified.
The Heist
Security footage captured the brazen heist on Anzac Day, shortly before closing time. The robbers burst into the South Auckland store, brandishing weapons. Here’s what happened during those heart-stopping seconds:
- Entry and Chaos: The group of masked robbers stormed into Glitter Jewellers. Four staff members sought refuge at the back of the store, while five customers fled in panic. Some customers even leaped over the counter to escape.
- Smash and Grab: The assailants systematically smashed every cabinet using their weapons. They emptied trays of jewels and gold bangles into bags. Meanwhile, another pair swept gems from the shop’s shelves.
- Escape: Just 16 seconds into the heist, a smoke cannon ignited, creating chaos. The robbers seized their loot—trays of gems and full bags—and fled the store.
Owner’s Perspective
Nitpreet Shee, the owner’s son, described the traumatic experience for their family. The robbers managed to kick their way through two sets of locked security doors to gain entry. Shee believes the thieves specifically targeted the store’s expensive 20-carat gold pieces, as they went directly for the heavy items like bangles and thick chains.
The incident left the family shaken. Shee mentioned that even dropping a calculator now startles them. “The place that we used to love being here has become the scariest place in our life,” he said.
Leaving New Zealand
The family, who has been in the jewelry business for two decades, is now considering closing the store and moving to Australia. “There is no point being in a country where we have spent 20 years but now we feel so unsafe,” Shee expressed123.
The brazen robbery at Glitter Jewellers highlights the vulnerability of businesses and the impact such incidents have on families. Authorities are investigating, but the emotional scars will linger for a long time.
1: Watch: Robbers Steal $1M Jewellery From Auckland’s Jewellers 2: Victims of Auckland jewellery store smash-and-grab no longer feel safe in New Zealand 3: ‘Australia Might Be Safer’: Owners of House of Gold & Diamond Jewellers After Robbery
