Philadelphia police announced Monday that they have identified a primary suspect in a string of armed robberies that have plagued Center City over the past month. The investigations focus on thefts of high‑value jewelry, including watches, gold chains and diamond pieces.
Surveillance video released
Authorities released new surveillance footage from an August 28 robbery on Sansom Street. The video shows two men exiting a Nissan Altima, one brandishing a handgun and the other a semi‑automatic rifle, before confronting a lone pedestrian at roughly 2:30 a.m. The suspect places a gun in the victim’s face, pulls on his wrist and then flees with what police describe as “thousands of dollars in jewelry.”
“They’re pointing handguns and shouting at him, threatening to shoot the complainant,” said Capt. Jason Smith of the Philadelphia Police Department.
Suspect identified
Investigators say the primary suspect is 32‑year‑old Shakur Nichols, who was questioned earlier this month. “We brought Mr. Nichols in, but he was subsequently released pending further investigation,” Capt. Smith explained.
The police believe Nichols is linked to the August 23 robbery in the 1500 block of Locust Street, where a victim was forced to surrender a gold chain and a wristwatch after a suspect pointed a rifle at him. “Most of the individuals were being targeted for high‑end, expensive jewelry – wristwatches or gold and silver chains,” Smith added.
Pattern of crimes
Authorities say the August 28 and September 1 incidents appear connected and that the investigation remains active. They are still seeking information on additional participants in the robberies.
Local residents expressed alarm over the use of firearms. “That heavy caliber gun. That scares me. Where do they get it from?” said Shantee Culler of Juniata Park. “It’s mind‑boggling that people would do that and walk up on people like that,” added Kerry Barnum of Spring Garden.
How to help
Police are urging anyone with information about the suspects or the robberies to contact the Philadelphia Police Department’s tip line. Community cooperation is essential to bringing those responsible to justice and restoring safety to Center City’s streets.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
