Chula Vista retail theft bust leads to five arrests

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Five people, including four juveniles, were arrested during a retail theft operation in Chula Vista last week, authorities said.

According to the El Cajon Police Department, investigators conducted the stint on Wednesday in collaboration with two major retailers in the area as a way to combat ongoing theft issues facing local businesses.

“Our investigators worked closely with store staff to surveil and arrest thieves in real-time without a delayed response. This one-day operation netted five arrests and led to the recovery of over $800 in merchandise,” the department stated in a press released detailing the operation.

Four juveniles were arrested and then released to their guardians after processing, police said. Their identities are being withheld due to their age.

A fifth person, identified as 21-year-old Noureddin Abtini of El Cajon, was named by police as a suspect in a series of thefts from local salon supply stores over that last year. The total lose in those cases added up to about $3,000 in merchandise.

Abtini was also arrested during the operation Wednesday. At the time of his arrest, he was reportedly in possession of an additional $600 in merchandise, as well as methamphetamine, police said. His arrest record shows multiple offenses for commercial burglary, grand theft and drug-related offenses.

“The El Cajon Police Department will use every resource available to hold criminals who commit these types of thefts accountable,” said Chief Mike Moulton. “Criminal acts will not be tolerated and will have consequences for those who commit them.”

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