Indian Jewelers Under Siege in California Crime Wave

Crime in the Jewelry Trade: A Rising Threat Against South Asian Jewelers

A dangerous surge in violent jewelry store robberies is sweeping across California, with Indian and other South Asian jewelers increasingly targeted by organized criminal gangs. The Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA) has issued an urgent alert, reporting a shocking pattern of smash-and-grab attacks that are not only causing financial devastation but also putting lives at risk.

Indian jewelers in California being targeted by criminals
Image Credit: California City Police Department

Since March, JSA has tracked at least 19 such violent incidents across the state. In 12 of them, criminals used stolen vehicles to ram directly into stores—many times during business hours when staff and customers were inside. In other cases, gangs of 10 to 30 individuals stormed stores wielding pickaxes and hammers. According to this Crime in the Jewelry Trade news report, the brazen nature and scale of these coordinated assaults are fueling alarm within the industry.

Gold Jewelry as the Main Target

JSA executive vice president Scott Guginsky said the attacks represent “one of the most violent patterns we have ever seen.” He explained that Indian jewelers are being singled out because they often stock large quantities of gold, a highly liquid asset in today’s market, fetching up to 95 cents on the dollar when melted.

“Why go for diamonds or watches when gold is at $3,500 an ounce?” he asked. “There’s no regard for human life in these attacks. They’re aiming for maximum profit with minimal risk of detection.”

A Criminal Supply Chain

Authorities believe that underground networks are helping criminals turn stolen gold into cash quickly. Guginsky warned that anyone aiding the resale of looted items—including pawnshops and complicit jewelers—could face prosecution, citing a recent New York City case where a Diamond District pawnshop owner was arrested for fencing stolen goods.

The use of social media platforms to recruit gang members is also suspected, pointing to an evolving and tech-savvy criminal infrastructure behind the scenes. In a recent bust, police in Sunnyvale apprehended five individuals before they could carry out a planned robbery—thanks to heightened surveillance and community cooperation.

How Jewelers Can Protect Themselves

To protect themselves, JSA is advising jewelers to reinforce their storefronts with shatterproof glass, hire armed guards, limit on-display inventory, and maintain active communication with local law enforcement. Tracking devices like Apple AirTags are also encouraged to assist in recovering stolen merchandise.

Guginsky strongly emphasized that store owners should never resist during a robbery. In several cases, drawing a weapon led to dangerous exchanges of gunfire, risking innocent lives and potential legal consequences. “Your life is worth more than any piece of jewelry,” he said.

An Urgent Call for Vigilance and Unity

The shocking wave of attacks underscores the need for heightened vigilance, stronger security protocols, and closer collaboration with law enforcement. South Asian jewelers, in particular, must rethink safety strategies and prepare for the worst while hoping for the best. A united effort across the jewelry industry is essential to stem the tide of this violent trend.

As investigations continue and law enforcement tightens its grip on criminal networks, industry players are reminded that preparedness, discretion, and communication could save lives. This is no longer just about theft—it’s about survival in a market under siege.

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