Oahu vendors want more security after brazen Swap Meet robbery

HALAWA (KHON2) — Authorities are still investigating after thousands of dollars worth of jewelry were stolen from the Swap Meet on Saturday, Oct. 19.

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The suspects used a hammer to smash open the display case before grabbing the items and taking off.

Vendors close to the burglarized jewelry store at the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet said the incident on Saturday is not the first time criminals made off with a big haul.

“I have real Tahitian pearls. Like a full necklace, just like the one I’m wearing,” said Unique Gifts of Hawaii owner Liliani Muti. “Like after one Swap Meet, one necklace went missing, it’s worth, like, $1,500.”

The Stadium Authority said it is working with security staff and Honolulu police to prevent such incidents.

“We see them in the in the beginning, you know, with the cashiers like that. But after that, they’re not around here and I think we can use more,” said Waipahu resident Junie Sales.

One thing that KHON2 heard from both vendors and customers alike is that they appreciate the current security presence, but there could be more officers near the vendors to deter thieves.

“I think so. I think there should be more security because we only have one policeman there, but we have a lot of the workers they drive by, yeah? But I think there should be someone like, undercover or maybe something like that,” Muti said.

“If anything like that happened, they can run for them, you know,” Sales said.

The Stadium Manager said in part through a memo to vendors that proactive measures to deter theft are being considered, including:

“…Increasing the visibility of stadium personnel, exploring the use of additional video surveillance and signage, and enhancing fencing/barricades around the vendor areas,” Aloha Stadium Manager Ryan Andrews said.

Vendors said those improvements can not happen soon enough.

“That’s what I want to see. So far, nothing happening yet. So hopefully the stadium going to help us give us some more security,” one vendor said.

Customers said a few bad apples will not ruin their experience and they still feel safe at the Swap Meet.

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“Because I love it here, I do my exercise here that’s why. Yeah, that won’t stop me,” Sales said.

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